General Reports [Archive] - Page 7 - InternationalSexGuide

Member #3428

12-13-07, 23:29

Can't believe you guys waste money on business class while traveling to Asia for cheap mongering? Save your ticket expenses and get double the amount of girls during your stay. Biz class is such a waste unless you are 120kg+, I mostly just watch a movie and sleep. And then a cutie wake me up and tell me to wake up cause I am the only one left as we landed 30 mins ago.

Not all airlines and routes are the same. In some parts of the world and on some carriers, Biz Class is only a little higher then a full fare, can be achieved by usage of few airline miles in your airline of choice, and / or is often given free of charge as an automatic upgrade if you stick with one carrier and fly them often enough and have high enough status. So tell me why Biz Class is a waste?

For my routing and my airlines you'd have to be crazy not take Biz Class over coach. My last trip had me in BKK for 12 days and some other asian cities, totaled over 30,000 actual flight miles, and I had some automatic upgrades built into the routing. But the total ticket cost was 2,500 USD for coach and 2,570 USD for first class. Guess which one I picked?

My next assignment in two weeks takes me to five countries including two weeks in BKK and is over 40,000 miles and costed 4,100 USD but all in first class, coach class was 3,800 USD. Guess which one I picked?

I think many folks would pay that difference to fly up front over the back and I don't think it's a waste at all.

Artisttyp

12-14-07, 03:52

Member #3428

12-14-07, 03:59

Ive been checking out different airlines and I noticed that thai airways only allows economy passengers one 44 lb bag and one 15lb carry on. This is insane. Is this common for trips to asia ?

Also some tickets from amsterdam to bangkok are way more than nyc to bangkok. I assume thats the euro coming into play or are flights just more costly leaving from europe?

Thanks

That's common for many foreign airlines, and some weigh your carry on too so be careful who you fly (Thai has never weighed my carry on however). US Legacy carriers allow the 50 to 70 lbs two pieces etc....

If you work, shop, or do recreational sports (scuba) it's just another reason to fly biz class as you get up to 80kg of luggage no matter the size. For me any extra weight charges vary from 8 USD to 18 USD a kg lately depending on the airline.

But most guys here on this site going to Thailand don't need much more then a change of underware and some not even that :)

Member #3428

12-14-07, 04:06

Ive been checking out different airlines and I noticed that thai airways only allows economy passengers one 44 lb bag and one 15lb carry on. This is insane. Is this common for trips to asia ?

Also some tickets from amsterdam to bangkok are way more than nyc to bangkok. I assume thats the euro coming into play or are flights just more costly leaving from europe?

Thanks

Just a side note, watch the contract of carriage, for example if you fly to Manila on Continental and you have a 12 hour layover to catch a Philippine airline or Thai flight over to BKK, you can check your two bags at 50 lbs (70 lbs each if you have status with Skyteam), and the forwarding airline HAS to take your bags if you can check them all the way through (less then a 24 hour layover in Manila) even if you are violating their 20 kg rule.

However on return, departure out of BKK, you are stuck with what that carrier out of BKK's rules are. So if their rules are 20 kg then that's it.

If you have airline status with Star or One World etc... then you get a higher weight litmit for those airlines also over the 20 kg for coach class.

Member #2041

12-14-07, 04:43

Tiger 888

12-14-07, 04:52

Artisttyp

12-14-07, 04:59

Unless you are carrying diving or climbing gear, or professional computer setups for sales purposes, there is no reason to exceed the 20K + 7 KG carry on weight limitations, and over the course of the trip, you will be glad you did stay within those weight limits - especially if you want to take a domestic Thailand flight to Phuket, Samui, Chiang Mai, etc. Everywhere in Thailand, there are inexpensive places to have laundry done, so you really only need to take a week's worth of clothes. And you won't need any cold weather clothing either.

I can barley get by the 50lb rule on american carriers. I usually take only one bag of 50lbs and a fold up duffle bag for shopping. I would also be bringing photography equipment weighing more than 15 lbs. not counting my cell phone ipod etc. etc. Im not a two pair of underwear one shirt person.

Thai airways stated first class can bring up to 88 lbs. Thats still lower than what we complain about.

I did nwa/ luthansa to turkey and yes I remember the weight limit was the same as US airlines because I started out on nwa. Turkish airlines was 40 lbs.

I could book an american based carrier but then my flying time would go through the roof with connections etc.

Asia and brazil have always been complicated for me to plan. I hope I can overcome the obstacles. Im so used to laid back south america I forget about the rest of it.

Artisttyp

12-14-07, 05:03

If you come from/go to the US these limits don't apply. In Asia overweight charges are not very high (100 Baht a Kg from BKK to HKG), and an excess of up to 5 Kg is almost always and up to 10 Kg many times ignored. Thai airways on trips to/from the US allow 2 Pieces with the normal US size restrictions and a weigh of 32 Kgs a piece. But they will be going to change that to 23 Kgs a piece.

I was on the thai airways website. What I saw listed was 44lbs one bag economy. I didnt see any pricing for excess so Im not sure I can pay if I wanted too.

I would like to take the non stop thai airways flight but not with those restrictions.

Member #2041

12-14-07, 05:04

Packing light is a discipline many folks simply don't have. But it's one that is well worth developing, as tighter and tighter weight restrictions are certainly the wave of the future in air travel.

Dodger Bulldog

12-14-07, 05:04

According to the Omaha World-Herald, the stepfather of the mall shooter in Omaha was vacationing in Thailand at the time.

Do you suppose he is one of us?

DB

Published Friday | December 7, 2007
Hawkins' stepfather, owner of rifle, was in Thailand Wednesday
BY LYNN SAFRANEK AND KARYN SPENCER
WORLD-HERALD STAFF WRITERS

http://www.omaha.com/index.php?u_page=2798&u_sid=10203759

Member #3428

12-14-07, 05:08

I can barley get by the 50lb rule on american carriers. I usually take only one bag of 50lbs and a fold up duffle bag for shopping. I would also be bringing photography equipment weighing more than 15 lbs. not counting my cell phone ipod etc. etc. Im not a two pair of underwear one shirt person.

Thai airways stated first class can bring up to 88 lbs. Thats still lower than what we complain about.

I did nwa/ luthansa to turkey and yes I remember the weight limit was the same as US airlines because I started out on nwa. Turkish airlines was 40 lbs.

I could book an american based carrier but then my flying time would go through the roof with connections etc.

Asia and brazil have always been complicated for me to plan. I hope I can overcome the obstacles. Im so used to laid back south america I forget about the rest of it.

Thai isn't the cheapest but it is very nice service. Going from America on Thai all the way will get you the higher luggage. Going from America on Philippine Air will get you the higher luggage. If you switch carriers then that is where you have a problem. Even going other airlines through Hong Kong can get you the higher classification of luggage.

Don't let it put you off, it is easy to work out the routing. You can easily get the higher luggage limitations out of the mainland.

Tiger 888

12-14-07, 05:09

I was on the thai airways website. What I saw listed was 44lbs one bag economy. I didnt see any pricing for excess so Im not sure I can pay if I wanted too.

I would like to take the non stop thai airways flight but not with those restrictions.Once more, this does not apply to flights with origin/destination US. Call them. And the 44 lbs restrictions apply for all carriers with all destinations except the US. Some low cost carriers even only allow 15 Kgs.

Member #3428

12-14-07, 05:20

Once more, this does not apply to flights with origin/destination US. Call them. And the 44 lbs restrictions apply for all carriers with all destinations except the US. Some low cost carriers even only allow 15 Kgs.

It's on their web site.

For travel To/from Canada and the U.S.A., the following regulations apply:
Passengers in all classes of service, from First to Economy, are allowed two pieces of luggage. The sum of the three dimensions (length + height + width) for each piece cannot exceed 158 cm. (62 inches) and the weight of each piece cannot exceed 32 kgs. (70 lbs).

http://www.thaiair.com/Travel_Destination_Information/FAQs/Check_in_faqs.htm#How%20much%20luggage%20am%20I%20allowed%20to%20check?

Tiger 888

12-14-07, 05:31

It's on their web site.

For travel To/from Canada and the U.S.A., the following regulations apply:
Passengers in all classes of service, from First to Economy, are allowed two pieces of luggage. The sum of the three dimensions (length + height + width) for each piece cannot exceed 158 cm. (62 inches) and the weight of each piece cannot exceed 32 kgs. (70 lbs).

http://www.thaiair.com/Travel_Destination_Information/FAQs/Check_in_faqs.htm#How%20much%20luggage%20am%20I%20allowed%20to%20check?
I made an enquiry to Thai airlines last week to find out if I can get an extra piece for my gold membership. They said yes, and the weight limit is 23/32 Kg. When I asked what that means they said that the weight can be either 23 or 32 (Thai logic) at present, but as soon as IATA approves the new rule it will be reduced to 23 Kg.

Member #3428

12-14-07, 05:39

I made an enquiry to Thai airlines last week to find out if I can get an extra piece for my gold membership. They said yes, and the weight limit is 23/32 Kg. When I asked what that means they said that the weight can be either 23 or 32 (Thai logic) at present, but as soon as IATA approves the new rule it will be reduced to 23 Kg.

Some pats of thai airline site already tell you 23 kg which makes sense as most legacy carriers are going to the 50 lb limitation away from the 70 lb limitations as an effort to reduce fuel consumption. You will get a greater leaway with your status, flying without status will get a total different answer and it's like this with a few carriers right now not just Thai. In august on Thai there was one weight limit out of the mainland and another out of BKK even though I was on the same class of ticket so go figure.

As far as IATA goes... and not busting chops here just FYI, IATA doesn't implement rules, it suggests and tries to work as a conduit between all the different airlines and freight companies to get a standard going but they will never set any rules as they are really powerless. One item I have is an IATA agency.

Thai Australia web site already says you can only have the 23 kg over the 32 kg so it depends your market and makes it difficult for agents....

http://www.thaiairways.com.au/thai_luggage_child.asp?id=3

Bold Focker

12-14-07, 11:49

4 tee shirts, 3 pairs of shorts, 2 long paint, 3 polo shirts. What more do you need. Take out all your old cloths leave them out there and buy new.

If you are flying on from BKK, Air asia has a 15kg limit! Cebu Pacific is 20KG.

Not sure about tiger not flown them for some time!

With long haul flight I generally fly mid week. Mostly empty, I either ask for Emergency exit (I try to get there 4 hour before check in) or just as doors shut, I scout out a empty row and lay down. Out of 12 flights was successfull about 8 times. Last time I flue with Oasis airline £315 return from london. I think bussines was £1000 more. That gets a lot of pussy in Pattaya!

Bamboo Pete

12-14-07, 18:02

This is something I know alot about. The best quality copies can be found in the stands that set up at Patpong 1 at night. I recently picked up a few very high quality copies of a Vacheron Constantin, a Jaeger LeCoultre, a Breguet, and a Patek Phillippe there. You have to ask to see the really good copies, as most of the stands will not have their best copies out for public viewing. My experience is that they will start out asking between 3500 and 4200 baht for the good copies, and will take between 1600 and 1800. Everyone has Breitling, Omega, & Rolex copies of varying quality, and usually some lousy Patek Phillippes. Lange & Sohne and IWC copies are also easy to find. The good ones of the brands I bought are much tougher to get than these.

FYI, in addition to the stands at Sukhumvit, I have also checked out the night markets at Hua Hin, Chiang Mai, and MBK and Sun Luam Night Bazaar in Bangkok. Several of the Patpong vendors have the best variety of the best quality fakes among the vast quantities of mediocre fake watches that you will find, although a few of the vendors at MBK have some high quality fakes as well, if you ask them to show you them (they are not displayed among their general wares). The Sun Luam vendors, as well as those on Sukhumvit, were almost uniformly selling crap, with the exception of some decent Rolex and Breitling fakes if that's what you want.

But, I would observe, if you have near term plans to go to Beijing, Saigon, or Shanghai, those cities have more better copies, generally available for less.Member #2041,

Thanks, many good hints, but as long as a don't have a fix adress, it's still difficult. Do you have the skill to distinguish between the good and bad ones? Do you ask the seller to open the back of the watch to see the clock work?

LittleBigMan

12-15-07, 01:18

Most carrier ( Coach ) U.S., 2 checkin's 50lbs a piece 1 carry-on but like most carrier it is inconsistent since it is never enforced consistently so passenger take what they want until someone stops them. This is just a general comment based on my experience working at the airport International like (Eva) 2 pieces ( Coach ) 70 lbs each and 1 carry-on 15lbs limit. In SFO they do check surprise! On my last trip in coach I have a Executive card they told me this card allows me to check in 3 pieces and the use of their club. This was a nice touch since it save me $15.00, didn't have to buy food prior to departure.

Airlines like Thai, are trying to regroup because of higher fuel cost. The more weight the more gas they need to burn. When it comes to weight and balance on a aircraft they have it down to how many cans of coke is on the aircraft right down to the bar of soap. They are going to nickel and dime the passenger in coach and give extra to those in Business and First. So depending how much you have and how much you travel it is surely more privileges in Business and up!

LBM

Member #2041

12-15-07, 04:49

I think bussines was £1000 more. That gets a lot of pussy in Pattaya!

In fact, well over 100 pussies if you shop on price.

Member #2041

12-15-07, 04:58

Member #2041,

Thanks, many good hints, but as long as a don't have a fix adress, it's still difficult. Do you have the skill to distinguish between the good and bad ones? Do you ask the seller to open the back of the watch to see the clock work?

The good ones almost invariably have a clear back so that you can see the movement. And I can't give you a fixed address - it's a bazaar, with something like 100 booths along the Patpong 1 street, perhaps a quarter of which sell mainly watches. Perhaps 1/4 of those booths had access to the better stuff - usually hidden somewhere out of sight - and shown only when you asked for something specific that they don't have out for showing. As for being able to tell the good from the bad, you are on your own - however, here's some hints - look for reasonably thin, mechanical (as opposed to quartz) watches with a clear back that you can see the movement. And look for very upscale brands - i.e. MORE upscale than Rolex, Tag/Heuer, Omega, and Breitling. Some will be automatic, some will be manual wind. Hence the ones I bought: Patek Phillippe, Vacheron Constentin, Breguet, Jaeger LeCoultre. The real things of those brands sell for $8K to $20K each.

Oh, BTW, the quartz movement watches work fine and are reliable, and thin - they are just not convincing counterfeits of the name brands.

NicFrenchy

12-15-07, 05:08

Bamboo Pete

12-15-07, 05:23

The good ones almost invariably have a clear back so that you can see the movement. And I can't give you a fixed address - it's a bazaar, with something like 100 booths along the Patpong 1 street, perhaps a quarter of which sell mainly watches. Perhaps 1/4 of those booths had access to the better stuff - usually hidden somewhere out of sight - and shown only when you asked for something specific that they don't have out for showing. As for being able to tell the good from the bad, you are on your own - however, here's some hints - look for reasonably thin, mechanical (as opposed to quartz) watches with a clear back that you can see the movement. And look for very upscale brands - i.e. MORE upscale than Rolex, Tag/Heuer, Omega, and Breitling. Some will be automatic, some will be manual wind. Hence the ones I bought: Patek Phillippe, Vacheron Constentin, Breguet, Jaeger LeCoultre. The real things of those brands sell for $8K to $20K each.

Oh, BTW, the quartz movement watches work fine and are reliable, and thin - they are just not convincing counterfeits of the name brands.Thanks , Member 2041 ,

I'm still hesitating , but will go for it on my next Bangkok trip. I'll be in Philippines in March , would that be a better place to buy (I don't think so).

You mentioned good Rolex immitations in Sukhumvit . Around which soi should I look? Do they also have a clear back?

Hoboken Michael

12-15-07, 09:32

Hello everyone! A few minutes ago, I looked at Bangkok's current weather as well as 5 day forecast and am stunned to see that the city apparently is. And will be. Scorching under unusually high temps. For December. If you are reading this and are currently there or are considering going, I am curious to know what your thoughts are about this? I am on the verge of canceling my vacation to Bangkok. With a few days in Pattaya. Because I would hate to see what the weather might have in store for me in early-mid Feb. 2008.

Sincerely,

Michael
Hoboken, NJ resident

Tom1055

12-15-07, 09:41

The good ones almost invariably have a clear back so that you can see the movement. And I can't give you a fixed address - it's a bazaar, with something like 100 booths along the Patpong 1 street, perhaps a quarter of which sell mainly watches. Perhaps 1/4 of those booths had access to the better stuff - usually hidden somewhere out of sight - and shown only when you asked for something specific that they don't have out for showing. As for being able to tell the good from the bad, you are on your own - however, here's some hints - look for reasonably thin, mechanical (as opposed to quartz) watches with a clear back that you can see the movement. And look for very upscale brands - i.e. MORE upscale than Rolex, Tag/Heuer, Omega, and Breitling. Some will be automatic, some will be manual wind. Hence the ones I bought: Patek Phillippe, Vacheron Constentin, Breguet, Jaeger LeCoultre. The real things of those brands sell for $8K to $20K each.

Oh, BTW, the quartz movement watches work fine and are reliable, and thin - they are just not convincing counterfeits of the name brands.2041,

Of the brands that you mentioned "Patek Phillippe, Vacheron Constentin, Breguet, Jaeger LeCoultre" do they have much selection. I was looking at the Breguet TOURBILLON MARINE, damn that is a sweet watch, would they have something like that? What are the names of the watches that you have seen there?

Thanks

PinkPearl

12-15-07, 12:09

It looks like all the Wise Travellers have invaded this section with Airline rubbish, I was not aware ISG also offered Travel agency services.

Can someone book a flight for me then? or can we go back to some more Appropriate conversations?

I believe if you are looking for "Air" advices, the net is not short of Airline specific Forums that can help you better.I believe there is a Travel Plans and Announcements thread at this site for the cuntry of Thailand. Perhaps that would be more appropriate for the topic? BTW, I will assume by the A word that weddings and halloween parties are excluded, but rear end reports are always welcome. Speaking more generally from BKK, my ass was sore last week but feels ok now.

Blunderer

12-15-07, 12:26

Jackson has made it quite clear in various forums in response to various posts of the type you've written below, that the intent of this forum is also to provide travel information. Good travel information is a critical part of the hobby. This would also include photographs not directly connected to girls.

It looks like all the Wise Travellers have invaded this section with Airline rubbish, I was not aware ISG also offered Travel agency services.

Can someone book a flight for me then? or can we go back to some more Appropriate conversations?

I believe if you are looking for "Air" advices, the net is not short of Airline specific Forums that can help you better.

Daddy San

12-15-07, 13:12

As a tourist, can you buy Prepaid SIMs in Thailand for cash, i.e. without a local bank account or local address?

What are the denominations?

How much is a local call to a mobile?

Where are the SIM sold?

Reason for asking is, that in some countries in Europe, one needs a bank account and an address, in order to purchase the first one, i.e. the phone number. (Before someone flames me, I do know that there are workarounds, but they are bothersome)

Member #2041

12-15-07, 13:50

Thanks , Member 2041 ,

I'm still hesitating , but will go for it on my next Bangkok trip. I'll be in Philippines in March , would that be a better place to buy (I don't think so).

You mentioned good Rolex immitations in Sukhumvit . Around which soi should I look? Do they also have a clear back?

I have no experience with the Philippines, so I can't help you there. As far as decent Rolex copies - Rolex copies are all over the place. Which ones are good and which ones are bad varies - and I haven't shopped for fake Rolexes in over a year - so I can't offer you any specifics. I can say that there are more vendors with more stock in Patpong than anywhere else, so the odds of finding the better copies are higher there - but a range of fake Rolexes of varying quality can be found pretty much anywhere. But, again, you need to know what you are looking for.

John Euro

12-15-07, 13:57

Not all airlines and routes are the same. In some parts of the world and on some carriers, Biz Class is only a little higher then a full fare,
I think many folks would pay that difference to fly up front over the back and I don't think it's a waste at all.I agree for 100% with you, specially on the so called multiple city combination or " around the world " ticket. If you check out several Buss. Class pricing you always find good deals. Long time ago when I started my business I was searching always for the cheapest economy ticket to fly to US or Asia, arrived most of the time there like a wreck after a long flight between the smokers etc. Stupid me but that was at the beginning. When I checked my company tax bill on profit at the end of the year I quickly changed over to Buss. Class and afterwards the tax men was paying my B. C. Tickets and I arrived always in good shape.

The advantage is also that you earn so much miles that you fly on a free or on a upgrade ticket when going on holiday.

Buss. C. Ticket are much cheaper when buying in BK, I recently came back from BK to London on Ethiad Airlines on a one way ticket, I paid only 52300 Thb for a B. C. Ticket include 2% for paying by Amex. , great flat bed seat like first class, they leave in the morning and arr. The same day at evening with cutting the 12h difference, price is just a bit more than some economy tickets, it all depends on how much time you spend to figure it out and your travel agent his market position.

Another advantage, no hassle with overweight or surcharge for your golf bag or heavy hand luggage, not talking about the extra service and priority’s everywhere.

John Euro

John Euro

12-15-07, 14:06

Ive b,

Also some tickets from amsterdam to bangkok are way more than nyc to bangkok. I assume thats the euro coming into play or are flights just more costly leaving from europe?

ThanksTicket pricing is Internationally calculated in US$ and as nothing to do with the Euro.

All flight from Europe to Asia are mainly fully booked, why should Airlines or agents reduce there prices then when they are the king? When competition is high or some Airlines that are starting new routes will discount to take customers from other company’s.

JE

Freeler

12-15-07, 17:46

Richo Stevens,

"Can't believe you guys waste money on business class while traveling to Asia for cheap mongering? Save your ticket expenses and get double the amount of girls during your stay."

I could not possibly have twice the pussy. Exhaustion would kill me.
BTW At today's ticket prices staying at home and screwing the Colombian ladies at the local RLD would be cheaper anyway.

Bold Focker,

"I think bussines was £1000 more. That gets a lot of pussy in Pattaya!"

My business ticket is only 400 Euros (£285) more - that's both ways, not a one way upgrade! Great seats, good food, airport lounge, no queueing, seat pre-select and reservation and pretty damn good cabin service too.
Just thought of one restriction: 20 kg luggage max. No prob, I'll be damned if I carry more than 10 kg!
And I get more pussy than you no matter what:D!

LittleBigMan

12-15-07, 18:52

Now that's the problem with having so many Threads, last time I look
"General" could include any one of the current Threads on the Board. So if someone ask a question it is usually, someone will answer it.

LBM

Artisttyp

12-15-07, 21:41

i just came back from the bookstore where i was reading roughguides' bangkok. i will certainly buy a copy of it before i leave. it had everything i wanted to know and alot more.

the one thing which stood out to me was the paragraph on police searching tourists for drugs. the book mentioned they look for it.

i would never do drugs in thailand or most places i go. if i do its a joint in jamaica or mexico......i dont do anything else.

the paragraph went on to say that they even go as far as [CodeWord109] (http://isgprohibitedwords.info?CodeWord=CodeWord109) tests in some cases.

they would find weed in my [CodeWord109] (http://isgprohibitedwords.info?CodeWord=CodeWord109) for sure...no chance of that not showing up.

i look a little edgy with a few tattoos but im 38 years(look 27) and wear decent clothes. what are my chances of a random search ? i usually only keep a lamenated photocopy of my passport.

thanks

first timers planning a trip to bangkok should read roughguides' bangkok

Freeler

12-15-07, 22:43

Artisttyp,

Police do random checks (or at least they appear to be random...) in gogos and bars.
When they do EVERYBODY inside gets tested on the spot.
You should find reports of such searches on
http://www.pattayamail.com/
on a regular basis.

Here are some search results:):
http://www.google.com/custom?domains=PattayaMail.com&q=tested&sitesearch=PattayaMail.com&client=pub-8611171753819704&forid=1&channel=8672446947&ie=ISO-8859-1&oe=ISO-8859-1&cof=GALT%3A%23008000%3BGL%3A1%3BDIV%3A%23FFFFFF%3BVLC%3ABF0000%3BAH%3Acenter%3BBGC%3AFFFFFF%3BLBGC%3AFFFFFF%3BALC%3ABF0000%3BLC%3ABF0000%3BT%3A000000%3BGFNT%3A0000FF%3BGIMP%3A0000FF%3BLH%3A75%3BLW%3A276%3BL%3Ahttp%3A%2F%2Fwww.pattayamail.com%2Fpmsearch_logo-sm.gif%3BS%3Ahttp%3A%2F%2Fwww.pattayamail.com%2F%3BLP%3A1%3BFORID%3A1%3B&hl=en&sa.x=9&sa.y=9

Artisttyp

12-16-07, 00:06

[QUOTE=Freeler]Artisttyp,

Police do random checks (or at least they appear to be random...) in gogos and bars.
When they do EVERYBODY inside gets tested on the spot.
You should find reports of such searches on
http://www.pattayamail.com/
on a regular basis.

Wow it is very true. I cant knock another culture but man that is brutal. I wonder if the 100 people who tested positive in one article will all face brutal prison sentences ?

Maybe I should stick to latin america.

By the way is this common in asia ?

Member #3428

12-16-07, 02:03

I have no experience with the Philippines, so I can't help you there.

My experience is the best place is China, after that Hong Kong, then Bangkok but I had some nice experiences in Korea.

Philippines.... don't waste your time, you'll be over priced and the quality is poor, trying to find decent fakes is hard.

My advice to Bamboo Pete, is if you find a good P4P girl who you get along with and such, then see if she'll take you to Patpong and start the negotiations. Usually that helps break the price down lower and get's some better quality if you are with thai over just being a lone farang walking around. That is if you are unsure about Patpong, not sure about the stalls, etc... There's a farang price and a thai price in everything and if a local girl starts the work it helps me. But I usually have a GF I'm with anyways. Just don't trust touts or tuk tuk or taxi drivers to help you get best quality IMHO.

Member #3428

12-16-07, 02:05

They are all over, two main brands 12 go or something like that and another, 50 baht got me a sim over at MBK but sim's can be found all over. refill cards for 12 are found at every 7-11 and other stalls all over the place. The other refill they charge it up for you electronically or such. Refil places for loads are all over also.

As a tourist, can you buy Prepaid SIMs in Thailand for cash, i.e. without a local bank account or local address?

What are the denominations?

How much is a local call to a mobile?

Where are the SIM sold?

Reason for asking is, that in some countries in Europe, one needs a bank account and an address, in order to purchase the first one, i.e. the phone number. (Before someone flames me, I do know that there are workarounds, but they are bothersome)

Lord Farquard

12-16-07, 03:54

They are all over, two main brands 12 go or something like that and another, 50 baht got me a sim over at MBK but sim's can be found all over. refill cards for 12 are found at every 7-11 and other stalls all over the place. The other refill they charge it up for you electronically or such. Refil places for loads are all over also.One 2 Call is the one that I use. Refill cards for the number can be purchased almost everywhere; 100,200,300,500 B. The nice thing about the refills is that it updates the time remaining to expire in 1 year. Some of the others only give you 3 months, I think that you have to get a 300b card to extend for the year. You might want to check on that.

Member #2041

12-16-07, 05:02

My experience is the best place is China, after that Hong Kong, then Bangkok but I had some nice experiences in Korea.

Philippines.... don't waste your time, you'll be over priced and the quality is poor, trying to find decent fakes is hard.

The selection I found of fakes in the main central market in Saigon was at least as good as that in the Silk market in Beijing, and those are probably the two best places in the world for buying a high end fake watch. Although, I haven't shopped in Hong Kong for several years, it would not surprise me if that is just as good. Bangkok is not as good as those places, and the prices are higher - i.e. the same fake watches that had a walk away price of $25-30 in Beijing and Saigon, required paying $40-50 in Bangkok.

BTW. walk away price is the lowest price offer where the vendor will not try to keep you from walking away after he counters with something higher. In my experience, it doesn't matter if you are Farang or local - the price where they will still make money making the sale is the lowest price you can get if you know how to negotiate. The initial asking price will surely be higher for a Farang, but the walk away price never changes - there is a price point at which the vendor doesn't wish to lose the sale, and a lower one at which they will let you walk, irrespective of whether you are white, black, yellow, green or purple. Before I ever buy a watch or anything else at one of these night bazaar-tyoe markets, I make sure that I have found out through low-ball bidding, what that walk price is.

I would also emphasize, as Tansak has, that following a tout is a GUARANTEE that you did not get the best price or quality for your baht.

Member #3428

12-16-07, 05:16

BTW. walk away price is the lowest price offer where the vendor will not try to keep you from walking away after he counters with something higher. In my experience, it doesn't matter if you are Farang or local - the price where they will still make money making the sale is the lowest price you can get if you know how to negotiate. The initial asking price will surely be higher for a Farang, but the walk away price never changes - there is a price point at which the vendor doesn't wish to lose the sale, and a lower one at which they will let you walk, irrespective of whether you are white, black, yellow, green or purple. Before I ever buy a watch or anything else at one of these night bazaar-tyoe markets, I make sure that I have found out through low-ball bidding, what that walk price is.

As this might relate to girls as well, what is your initial counter when dealing with these folks. Some folks go 50%-75% below but try to go for paying 50% below what original asking price is. Granted 90% of the time we're talking one or two USD difference and I could care less so I never fight it that hard, but when going for higher end items I do care.

I know what I pay for girls, I know what I pay for at markets as well for goods. But what are others doing just out of curiosity.

And I'm surprised the number of P4P girls, and old GF's, that won't bargain when they are shopping with my money :) :)

Member #2041

12-16-07, 06:00

As this might relate to girls as well, what is your initial counter when dealing with these folks. Some folks go 50%-75% below but try to go for paying 50% below what original asking price is. Granted 90% of the time we're talking one or two USD difference and I could care less so I never fight it that hard, but when going for higher end items I do care.

It depends on whether I have already established what the walk away price is. What I try to do ideally is find the same item at more than one vendor, and use one vendor for price research, and maybe buy at the other vendor.

before I have any information, I will normally counter the first asking price with between 1/4 and 1/3 of the price asked, and then I hold to it in the face of numerous progressively lower offers from the seller. I will then see how low they go, and how quickly they go low, to gauge what the walking price will be. And after the first time, I will generally walk, listening very carefully to how low the offer gets as I am walking away. At this point, I will have in my mind just how low I can get the item for, especially at another vendor. I will later return, and offer EXACTLY that price, and hold firmly to it, in the face of the vendor's counters. I might then go up SLIGHTLY if I feel that it is necessary to get the vendor to actually close, but only after they are clear that I am about to walk again, and they have gone as low as they will go without me moving on my offer.

This strategy I only use when buying material items. I don't use it with P4P women for two reasons: 1st, it can leave hard feelings with the seller (and if I'm buying an item, I don't care, but when buying companionship, I don't want that) and secondly, sometimes when negotiating P4P, the lower head takes over the negotiation process.

Member #3428

12-16-07, 06:50

One 2 Call is the one that I use. Refill cards for the number can be purchased almost everywhere; 100,200,300,500 B. The nice thing about the refills is that it updates the time remaining to expire in 1 year. Some of the others only give you 3 months, I think that you have to get a 300b card to extend for the year. You might want to check on that.

If that's true then I get screwed as 300 baht only updated it for one month each time. Not a problem as I'm there every month it seems like and refill it often but I think it's only one month atleast the 300 baht cards i was buying.

Tiger 888

12-16-07, 07:47

If that's true then I get screwed as 300 baht only updated it for one month each time. Not a problem as I'm there every month it seems like and refill it often but I think it's only one month atleast the 300 baht cards i was buying.The cards that last 1 year have much higher calling rates per minute (I think it is 4 Baht). So if you heavily use it, you would want to make a calculation. For me the 1 year card does it because I don't stay in LOS for more than a week at a time (I prefer to be able to buy my beer at the time of the day that I want to buy it - I don't drink during the day but that rule is ridiculous). I paid 250 baht and it was charged with about 350. You might even be able to switch the plan on your card. Just ask a shop at MBK for example. Or at BIGC in Pattaya.

Member #3428

12-16-07, 07:59

The cards that last 1 year have much higher calling rates per minute (I think it is 4 Baht). So if you heavily use it, you would want to make a calculation. For me the 1 year card does it because I don't stay in LOS for more than a week at a time. I paid 250 baht and it was charged with about 350. You might even be able to switch the plan on your card. Just ask a shop at MBK for example. Or at BIGC in Pattaya.

I end up using the free wifi in places and using fring on my phone to use skype for most calls and skype out of the room on the computer. So it's not that bad. I spend two weeks or so at a time there for work. Basically it was replying via calls and sms to the recent manila GF that i was being good in BKK that ate up most my cards this last trip.

Tiger 888

12-16-07, 08:21

I end up using the free wifi in places and using fring on my phone to use skype for most calls and skype out of the room on the computer. So it's not that bad. I spend two weeks or so at a time there for work. Basically it was replying via calls and sms to the recent manila GF that i was being good in BKK that ate up most my cards this last trip.If you are in the reach of internet, you could subscribe to voipcheap.com and initiate calls through the browser. Thailand is US$ 0,01 per minute, your home country most probably free, and the connection charge is 0,05 per call. You will receive a call back onto your Thai mobile and reciving calls on the mobile in Thailand is not charged airtime. So you could call another mobile in Thailand for 0.7 Baht instead of 4. Plus the connection charge of 1.7 Baht. This goes also very well for the few crazy internet cafes that charge you a 20 Baht per minute fine if you use VoIP like Skype (I know of one in Pattaya).

Member #3428

12-16-07, 08:47

Thailand is US$ 0,01 per minute, your home country most probably free,

Excellent site, thank you, but I wish... my country is so out there no one has heard of us. For us it would be 23 cents a minute and skype is cheaper. My country can't even do interantional SMS messenging and doesn't even have roaming with our telecom provider.

Plus work, big brother tries to watch me a lot, and they do take care of the skype charges, the voice mails and all the forwarding numbers and such. So I'm kind of stuck with it.

But I know what you mean, I've taught many girls how to use the phones better with other services.

PinkPearl

12-16-07, 11:15

[QUOTE=Freeler]Artisttyp,

Police do random checks (or at least they appear to be random...) in gogos and bars.
When they do EVERYBODY inside gets tested on the spot.

You should find reports of such searches on http://www.pattayamail.com/
on a regular basis.

Wow it is very true. I cant knock another culture but man that is brutal. I wonder if the 100 people who tested positive in one article will all face brutal prison sentences ?

Maybe I should stick to latin america.Just stay out of the bars. The streets are full of meat.

SkmSteve

12-16-07, 12:43

I know if i need to buy computers ect that i should go to pantip plaza. Can anyone advise where i should go to buy Jeans ECT in european sizes. This may be a stuip question in light of all the stalls which Hauk these things around, just wondering if theres any place better.
Thanks in advance.

SkmSteve

12-16-07, 12:45

I know if i need to buy computers ect that i should go to pantip plaza. Can anyone advise where i should go to buy Jeans ECT in European sizes. This may be a stupid question in light of all the stalls which Hauk these things around, just wondering if theres any place better.
Thanks in advance

Traveler1234

12-16-07, 14:26

The cards that last 1 year have much higher calling rates per minute (I think it is 4 Baht). So if you heavily use it, you would want to make a calculation. For me the 1 year card

I paid B300 at the Mall for a one year card and added B100 for safe measure. Last trip, 3 days only, used it for local as well as international calls to states, HK and Taiwan and still have B100 left, one year term. For a brief 2-3 minute international call, not sure exactly what they charge but a lot cheaper than using your 'home' number.

1Ball

12-16-07, 14:42

Steve, I dont know where you live, but I found, when shopping for a computer a couple of years ago, that the models for sale at Pantip were models which were already discontinued. When asking the salespeople about international warranties, they were very vague. You can buy a laptop online, and have it shipped to you. I just bought a new IBM 2 weeks ago, it was a very good price, and the warranty is excellent.

For jeans, I would go to the week end market. There must be over 500 vendors who sell jeans, so you are bound to find something for you.

Good luck

I know if i need to buy computers ect that i should go to pantip plaza. Can anyone advise where i should go to buy Jeans ECT in European sizes. This may be a stupid question in light of all the stalls which Hauk these things around, just wondering if theres any place better.
Thanks in advance

Blunderer

12-16-07, 16:14

Actually, it should read 'etc' ;)

In answer to your query, I usually get that sort of stuff at MBK. Easy to get to, jam packed with just about everything, and less bargaining required than the markets (still bargain though).

As a side note, it is also where I go to get phones unlocked (the place is HUGE).

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/MBK_Center

Sorry..should read " good Value Jeans ECT "

I know if i need to buy computers ect that i should go to pantip plaza. Can anyone advise where i should go to buy Jeans ECT in European sizes. This may be a stupid question in light of all the stalls which Hauk these things around, just wondering if theres any place better.
Thanks in advance

LittleBigMan

12-16-07, 17:49

I have a phone, sim, purchased in Pattaya (1-2 calling ) I load the phone with 300 minute cards at 7-11 stores. Each time after I load the phone I check the status and it always show that the minutes are now good for another year. Exactly 1 year from the day I loaded that particular card.

When I call the U.S. on this card, it is approximately 10 baht a minute still cheaper than other plans if you don't talk long.

LBM

Lord Farquard

12-16-07, 18:08

The cards that last 1 year have much higher calling rates per minute (I think it is 4 Baht).

The plan I am on is 1 Bhat/min and a text message is also 1 Bhat. Unless you are in the States, then it is like 20 Bhat for a text message-------ouch!

Freeler

12-16-07, 18:25

Art,

Most SE Asian countries aren't exactly in favor of drugs and drugs should be avoided at all times.
Sing and Malaysia have a solid hang-em-high policy on drug possession in order to sell (I believe 10 grams of 'hard' drugs is a neck snapper). 'Soft' drugs: caning and prison...

Freeler

Blunderer

12-16-07, 19:18

I don't know if it is still there (I remember it from over 20 years ago now), but when you took the train across from Malaysia, there used to be a big sign when you come into Thailand that read:

The penalty for drug trafficking is DEATH

Where DEATH was written in big red letters that were dripping with blood.

Say what you will, but you can hardly claim the warnings are so subtle you didn't pick up on them :)

I'm too lazy to look it up now, but don't they still execute by machine gun in Thailand? Not fun!!

Seriously, you'd have to be a moron wouldn't you. Every now and again there's the big stink in the news about a <insert random western nationality here> who gets caught and faces death. This stuff is hardly unforseeable - I think of it as a simple manifestation of Darwinism.

Art,

Most SE Asian countries aren't exactly in favor of drugs and drugs should be avoided at all times.
Sing and Malaysia have a solid hang-em-high policy on drug possession in order to sell (I believe 10 grams of 'hard' drugs is a neck snapper). 'Soft' drugs: caning and prison...

Freeler

Opebo

12-16-07, 19:30

The preceding reports are true - Thailand, like most Asian countries, implements even more horrific human rights abuses regarding drugs than Western nations. There are still, for the moment, two exceptions - Cambodia and Laos. There you may still buy and smoke marijuana without much chance of being murdered, etc. Last I was there two or three years ago one could even still order pizzas with marijuana on top - I wonder if that amazing freedom yet exists?

Artisttyp

12-16-07, 20:33

the preceding reports are true - thailand, like most asian countries, implements even more horrific human rights abuses regarding drugs than western nations. there are still, for the moment, two exceptions - cambodia and laos. there you may still buy and smoke marijuana without much chance of being murdered, etc. last i was there two or three years ago one could even still order pizzas with marijuana on top - i wonder if that amazing freedom yet exists?

the odd thing is i actually have a legal prescription for "marinol" (dont ask) which are pot pills.

if i had a [CodeWord109] (http://isgprohibitedwords.info?CodeWord=CodeWord109) test done marijuana would show up for sure. i could always show them the prescription but it would take alot of explaining. also i dont know if marinol is legal in thailand since its only sold in the states and canada.

asian culture and i have always clashed thats why ive been avoiding asia for so long.

im actually now looking into a photography trip to egypt.

glad i found out about it this early.

Lord Farquard

12-16-07, 20:49

I'm too lazy to look it up now, but don't they still execute by machine gun in Thailand? Not fun!! .
At the Bangkok Hilton they have switched to injection. (but not that long ago)

Freeler

12-16-07, 21:37

Art,

I won't ask, but I would leave them at home!
I do bring XTC tho - on my mp3 player:D!

LittleBigMan

12-17-07, 00:14

If you can't get a fair deal in the U.S. I would never take a chance or put myself in a situation to deal with the legal system in any country regarding drugs especially in Thailand. It's so funny that countries like Thailand, Cambodia and Laos make a big stink about drugs and hanging and shooting people when they allow the Golden Triangle to exist. If they didn't enjoy the benefits of the drug lord payoff's and wasn't so scared the drugs lords had a bigger Army maybe just maybe they would have done something along time ago in regards to drugs.

But personally, I don't go near or ever put myself in a position to have to deal with the local policy. Just being stop on my motorbike for making a right turn had me nearly going in my pants!

LBM

Member #3428

12-17-07, 01:11

I've found Fortune to be better for most things then at pantip, plus easier to get to. It's a hike off the bts to pantip and the traffic around it is a bear for taxi's and such. Fortune is right off the subway. And that's for electronics and such obviously. But I have two good vendors at Pantip that I see for some specialty items. If you want warranty items at Pantip the top floor (fifth), IT city will warranty items and have international brands and such.

For jeans... weekend market is a friggin zoo. If you're into wandering around and wasting day then go for it. You sound like you obviously not want to spend the higher end money in Siam's and Zen's and such. MBK has a clothing stall area at the far end of the third floor that you can bargain down and get jeans at, there is a big jeans store right in front at on the left hand side as you look at the area but wander around they are all over back inside that maze.

NicFrenchy

12-17-07, 05:09

Richo Stevens

12-17-07, 05:11

It's so funny that countries like Thailand, Cambodia and Laos make ... when they allow the Golden Triangle to exist.

LBMWTF are you talking about?

Old Thai Hand

12-17-07, 10:10

I don't know if it is still there (I remember it from over 20 years ago now), but when you took the train across from Malaysia, there used to be a big sign when you come into Thailand that read:

The penalty for drug trafficking is DEATH

Where DEATH was written in big red letters that were dripping with blood.

Say what you will, but you can hardly claim the warnings are so subtle you didn't pick up on them :)

I'm too lazy to look it up now, but don't they still execute by machine gun in Thailand? Not fun!!

Seriously, you'd have to be a moron wouldn't you. Every now and again there's the big stink in the news about a <insert random western nationality here> who gets caught and faces death. This stuff is hardly unforseeable - I think of it as a simple manifestation of Darwinism.

When landing in Malaysia on any airline, it is bluntly announced that possession of drugs is a capital offense subject to the death penalty.

M P Lurker

12-17-07, 10:47

Yes, he sure did, and he even created specific sections for it so that all this Airline talk does not clog the "General Bangkok" Thread.

Or maybe I am mistaken?
Nic,

I assumed that the "Bangkok" thread was for Bangkok mongering topics outside of MPs which has its own thread, and that "General Reports" probably was intended for stuff a little bit off the Mongering theme, i.e. Airlines, shopping, and all that stuff that might bore many mongers, like myself.

But is there anywhere that actually states the purpose of a thread???

On the 1/1/06 Admin simply announced "Thread Starter" for General Reports.
So I suppose your guess is as good as mine what the topic really means.

LittleBigMan

12-17-07, 18:46

wtf, get off the crack! richo stevens! look down and rtff, responding to comments made by freeler and o****.

lbm

Blunderer

12-17-07, 21:56

Yes, he sure did, and he even created specific sections for it so that all this Airline talk does not clog the "General Bangkok" Thread.

Or maybe I am mistaken?

You are mistaken. There is a separate Bangkok thread, it is well worth a look - there's lots of the type of information you sound more interested in in there. This is the 'General Reports' thread - maybe it'd be simpler if it were renamed to the 'everything that doesn't fit under any of the other categories' thread, but it doesn't roll off the tongue in the same way ;)

Raptorea

12-17-07, 22:54

How many members have been involved in a bar raid while visiting Bkk or Pattaya? In reading it looks like most of the time it is at closing late nite and it also seems like a lot of time involved if the club is busy to check all people with [CodeWord140] (http://isgprohibitedwords.info?CodeWord=CodeWord140) tests?

Artisttyp

12-17-07, 23:39

You are mistaken. There is a separate Bangkok thread, it is well worth a look - there's lots of the type of information you sound more interested in in there. This is the 'General Reports' thread - maybe it'd be simpler if it were renamed to the 'everything that doesn't fit under any of the other categories' thread, but it doesn't roll off the tongue in the same way ;)

Actually you guys saved my ass so Im VERY thankful that this information exists.....yet another reason to give jackson his $19.95

Thanks again guys.

It looks like I will be going to egypt. I have a hardcore fetish for arab women. Im not expecting much in forms of mongering but it will be intresting to say the least.

Piper1

12-18-07, 00:11

Actually you guys saved my ass so Im VERY thankful that this information exists.....yet another reason to give jackson his $19.95

Thanks again guys.

It looks like I will be going to egypt. I have a hardcore fetish for arab women. Im not expecting much in forms of mongering but it will be intresting to say the least.Artisttyp - Marinol - sounds interesting. I will ask - what's it subscribed for?

As for Egypt - I'm booked in for mid-February - a couple of nights in Cairo for fun and a few nights in Sharm for work and fun. I wouldn't expect Arab girl action unless you get very lucky, or you know people - and I live in Arabia. I've been lucky with Arab girls a few times, but it takes work and persistence. My research shows that apart from photography, diving etc, the pleasures of the feminine kind in Egypt will be CIS and Chinese.

NicFrenchy

12-18-07, 04:45

You are mistaken. There is a separate Bangkok thread, it is well worth a look - there's lots of the type of information you sound more interested in in there. This is the 'General Reports' thread - maybe it'd be simpler if it were renamed to the 'everything that doesn't fit under any of the other categories' thread, but it doesn't roll off the tongue in the same way ;)Got it. Thanks to you and Mick for the explanation.

And, I know what's to expect from the Bangkok Thread, believe it or not, I posted a couple of one liners there LOL

Cheers Guys.

Now if you'll excuse me, I have to catch up on my writing. I'm 4 reports behind.

Joe Nailer

12-18-07, 15:01

My trip to BKK is now set over the new year's week. Can't wait!

I booked a hotel on Internet. This is what happeded.

I selected a hotel on Sukhumvit. It took me to the payment page (thinking I am lucky to book one in this area considering the high season). Naturally I followed the instruction and typed in all the card details and hit "OK" with a big grin on my face. All's done.

But no. I got an email from the operator, saying the room I booked was not available, and ask me to choose another one listed in the email. Am I going to be shafted here?

What can you do in this situation?

1/ cancel it?. They have probably held (not taken) the amount on your credit card already. Now you are stuck with them. Imagine the hassle you would get to get the refund. And you would be paying a fee anyway.

2/ choose an alternative hotel from the list in the email? A bit fishy here. Why only these? Why can't I choose one other than these? But you don't want to take a risk of messing all up. So I follow to choose one from the list. None is near the actions, but not too far away. So I inform them of my new choice. A choice at a slightly higher price range.

Is this booking process here the normal practice by internet hotel booking? Compare this with airline booking. As far as I know, they do not take you to the payment page unless there is a seat available for you.

Furtunately my alternative hotel was confirmed ok, but still feel they had me over a barrel.

Has anyone had similar experience?

El Greco

12-19-07, 00:30

Member #3428

12-19-07, 00:50

But no. I got an email from the operator, saying the room I booked was not available, and ask me to choose another one listed in the email. Am I going to be shafted here?

Trying not to clog this up and upset Nic... And this should be in the hotel forum BTW, From my experience...

It depends on the site you were using.

Kind of sounds like you were using a consolidator. Firms buy up rooms at discounted rates, for example i buy up 50 nights in hotel X at this price for the year and i buy up 50 nights in hotel Y at this price for the year etc... You book your room, they go to the hotel and the hotel says sorry we are full or that classification of room is sold out. So they go to next hotels and that is what you got offered.

Others companies have sites on the net where they post their contract rate with the property. You book your room, they go to the hotel and hotel tells them sorry that contract rate is full up go someplace else, so they go to the next group of hotels.

A third option is that the hotels are managed by the same company and they move you around to where they have availability. There are many management firms in Asia that represent a large number of hotels.

In almost all cases you put up your CC number at time of booking or the rooms will not be reserved but they rarely charge it unless you are a no show or till the room is confirmed at least and the room was not confirmed. If you used some fly by night company to book your room then yeah you could be fleeced but in most cases it is no issue. Standard practice in travel industry in my neck of the woods to take CC upfront before even looking at working with someone.

No they did not have you over the barrel you could have gone to any number of online reservation firms to get a room and you might have gotten the hotel you wanted at the price you wanted. You just took what they wanted, you picked from their list instead of surfing the net and trying others.

Yes you had an option of that list only as that is the list of hotels they obviously work with and they do not work with the others, or the others were full up or the othes already filled their contract quota.

Sorry Nic... know you hate this crap. ;)

NicFrenchy

12-19-07, 11:13

Trying not to clog this up and upset Nic...
Sorry Nic... know you hate this crap. ;)Nah mate, that's all good! It's actually my fault and I apologise to all for having misunderstood the Thread Topic.

In regards to Hotel Rooms, why are you guys under the impression that you can get a better deal on the internet?

Most times, the best thing to do is to shop around on the web and then call the Hotel directly. Hotels give these Website a Commission so you can almost always get away with the Website's price + a rebate of 5% by just calling the hotel.

Let's say you want to book the Davis Hotel on Soi 24, and you see it on Expedia.com for 4,000 thb per night. Expedia is knowned to ask for 20%+ commission from Hotels for sending business so, from the 4,000 you pay expedia, the Hotel only gets 3,200.
Call the hotel, explain calmly to the manager that you know the hotel roughly makes 3,200 on the Expedia Booking, then offer to pay directly 3,500.

Sometimes it will work and sometimes not, but 3,500 sounds like a win-win for both you and the hotel !

Anyhow, sorry too for Clogging the Thread.

Joe Nailer

12-19-07, 17:04

Trying not to clog this up and upset Nic... And this should be in the hotel forum BTW, From my experience.

It depends on the site you were using.

Kind of sounds like you were using a consolidator. Firms buy up rooms at discounted rates, for example i buy up 50 nights in hotel X at this price for the year and i buy up 50 nights in hotel Y at this price for the year etc... You book your room, they go to the hotel and the hotel says sorry we are full or that classification of room is sold out. So they go to next hotels and that is what you got offered.

Others companies have sites on the net where they post their contract rate with the property. You book your room, they go to the hotel and hotel tells them sorry that contract rate is full up go someplace else, so they go to the next group of hotels.

A third option is that the hotels are managed by the same company and they move you around to where they have availability. There are many management firms in Asia that represent a large number of hotels.

In almost all cases you put up your CC number at time of booking or the rooms will not be reserved but they rarely charge it unless you are a no show or till the room is confirmed at least and the room was not confirmed. If you used some fly by night company to book your room then yeah you could be fleeced but in most cases it is no issue. Standard practice in travel industry in my neck of the woods to take CC upfront before even looking at working with someone.

No they did not have you over the barrel you could have gone to any number of online reservation firms to get a room and you might have gotten the hotel you wanted at the price you wanted. You just took what they wanted, you picked from their list instead of surfing the net and trying others.

Yes you had an option of that list only as that is the list of hotels they obviously work with and they do not work with the others, or the others were full up or the othes already filled their contract quota.

Sorry Nic... know you hate this crap. ;)I thought this was the right place for my post. Cleary this is not about a hotel, but about booking of a hotel.

But thanks for the info. Now I know how it works. The point is whether or not you trust them/their system. BTW the latter part of your comments are by someone who had known how it worked.

BTW I used hotels2thailand. El Greco mentions asiarooms which I came across, and noticed they clearly state up front that they will not take money unless a room you requested is booked and confirmed. In this case you are free to surf and find what you want. When I got the email saying the room was unavailable, I tried to locate the similar statement, but I could not find it in hotels2thailand website (maybe hidden somewhere?).

Anyway, it's now done and dusted.

Cheers

Member #3428

12-19-07, 22:29

In regards to Hotel Rooms, why are you guys under the impression that you can get a better deal on the internet?.....Call the hotel, explain calmly to the manager that you know the hotel roughly makes 3,200 on the Expedia Booking, then offer to pay directly 3,500..

Yes and no. Commissions range from 5% to 10% on average, the more business you give them or the higher you are known (Expedia) you get more commission.

I agree with what you are saying about calling direct; however my history in dealing in BKK is that maybe 70% of hotels return emails, many are run by management companies that make these decisions so going to the hotel is useless in some cases, how much time are you spending calling different hotels and I will estimate over 98% of the people here don't speak a word of thai and getting to the right person or the right area is often difficult. So good luck calling most hotels directly in Bangkok.

Plus some hotels like Dusit are famous for quoting you 60-90 US dollars over what the average internet rates are if you go to them direct and they won't bargain down on the phone. Accor who runs some good chains runs travel industry discounts up to 75% off published rates if you can get those and they have some good corporate rates but they are going non guest friendly in some places in BKK. Other firms in asia have good corporate rates, but the marriott travel industry and corporate rates for JW in BKK sucks so it's hit and miss.

Now other operators buy up XXX days a year at certain hotels. We pay the hotels about 1/3 the average rate but we buy up over 60-90 days a year minimum (sometimes more) and we pay cash up front at the begining of the year. Then we have the rest of the year to sell off the number of days we bought up and we can sell those much lower then other folks including expedia so expedia is not the best operator out there in all countries. Especially Asia, there are stronger Internet hotel booking engines in Asia then expedia.

Then you have places like latestays that is like a priceline in USA or such and they offer two week in advance discounts on rooms and you can find some good prices there which beat even industry rates. Some hotels would rather dump excess inventory at terrible low rates then having them sit empty. The revenue management aspect of the travel industry has gone out the window lately.

Basically, BKK is priced so low in hotel rates (compared to other asian cities) what are people fighting for? A few dollars? After a while it doesn't make much sense to spend the effort. Go where you are comfortable and takes care of you. The personalized service and atmosphere and such is what seperates the places in BKK IMHO. Probably most peope using these Internet booking sites are still new(er) to BKK.

Cheers !!

Member #3428

12-19-07, 22:39

I thought this was the right place for my post. Cleary this is not about a hotel, but about booking of a hotel....But thanks for the info. Now I know how it works....Anyway, it's now done and dusted Cheers

Nah mate, maybe I was frustrated, it's been three weeks since I was in BKK and I have two weeks left till I return. ;) Enjoy your time !

Dinghy

12-22-07, 21:02

Happy Pizza (restaurant by that name in PP, SR and SV Cambodia) The happy part is green vegetable oregano like material Yup, still exists

Joe Nailer

12-23-07, 09:55

Nah mate, maybe I was frustrated, it's been three weeks since I was in BKK and I have two weeks left till I return. ;) Enjoy your time !Thanks Tansak.

As this trip is my first in the scene, so it would be of a reconnaissance. I've got 5 days, and my plan is to try different things; MPs (a few variations in this, incl. legit one to rekindle the imeptus), go-gos, FLs, and possibly Eden club. I would be needing the enhancer to keep it up.

I am also keen to try GFE as well, either from a pro or a non-pro.

I am not sure if I can cram everthing into a 5 days though.

Thanks for all the info in this forum.

I shall report.

Member #3428

12-23-07, 21:35

mps (a few variations in this, incl. legit one to rekindle the imeptus), go-gos, fls, and possibly eden club. i would be needing the enhancer to keep it up. i am also keen to try gfe as well, either from a pro or a non-pro. i am not sure if i can cram everthing into a 5 days though.

as i was a cranky bastard earlier i'll try to give you my two cents, but everyone has a different opinion.

mp's: micklicker posted a list of soapies that is in report of distinction section that is a great guide to soapies in various areas and will guide you and help you pick the place for you. same token, giotto posted a mp listing as well but in a different area that will guide you where to go as well. that's in the reports of distinction as well. plus it was recently updated.

i won't bother with my choices as everyone is different but what they write has been pretty accurate in my opinion as well, if they report it is good then it is generally good so they should be your guide to help you choice where to go on your first visits in your limited days, don't just walk into a place you've never seen or heard about would be my advice. take their reports and use them.

eden: it's been written and talked about to death but imho everyone should try it once in their life if they go to bkk. just my pov.

fl: beer garden, bamboo beer, gullivers, flamingo moe's, etc... standing around nana or late night thermane just take your pick.... even ball in hand and regular bars have picked up fl. fl's can give you great service for the best price.

enhancer to keep it up: pharmacy between king tailor and bully's on suk (between nana and jw if you need wider frame of reference), you can't miss them, there are two of them, both have enhancer.

gfe: hard not to have that even in a mp. it's hit and miss of course but if you pick correct you'll have gfe all the time. granted you can pick wrong but just get back in the saddle and try again ;)

locations: nep is unique not sure wild is the term but it is more something then cowboy is and soi 33 is more higher cost but more laid back then the other two.

5 days.... go for short time, don't fall in love with one no matter how much you enjoy so don't go lt if you want to experience it all, go for 15 different ones and experience it all. and you still will have only scratched the surface of what some of these long time experts here have done as it takes months and months if not years to sample it all.

oh... [CodeWord901] (http://isgprohibitedwords.info?CodeWord=CodeWord901)'s and sol are unique, not for everyone but again it's something that everyone should experience once in their life, afterschool in cowboy also can be interesting in the same general style.

enjoy !!! and happy holiday....

Traveler1234

12-23-07, 22:43

Thanks Tansak.

As this trip is my first in the scene, so it would be of a reconnaissance. I've got 5 days, and my plan is to try different things; MPs (a few variations in this, incl. legit one to rekindle the imeptus), go-gos, FLs, and possibly Eden club.The first Report of Distinction was based on a 5 day junket to LOS - if you follow Phuquar's steps, albeit some of the places have either changed name or closed down, you won't go wrong. Don't consider it a recon trip - you can get a real good cross section of what's available in Bkk in 5 days.

If you read further in the ROD thread, you might even find interesting alternatives.

As far a hotels go, stay at Livingstone's on Soi 33 (see Giotto's thread) or Majestic for your first visit.

Enjoy your trip and happy holidays.

Joe Nailer

12-24-07, 16:02

the first report of distinction was based on a 5 day junket to los. if you follow phuquar's steps, albeit some of the places have either changed name or closed down, you won't go wrong. don't consider it a recon trip. you can get a real good cross section of what's available in bkk in 5 days.

if you read further in the rod thread, you might even find interesting alternatives.

as far a hotels go, stay at livingstone's on soi 33 (see giotto's thread) or majestic for your first visit.

enjoy your trip and happy holidays. thanks t1234, tansak,

re: hotels, it was too late to book a hotel along suk, so i opted for a one at petchburi road, near pantip plaza i think.

i have just read phuqer's report about his 5 day itinerary; i must say its quite comprehensive. my plan almost follows his ideas except shopping and sightseeing.

mps

i have put 5, 6 mps at various sois on sukhumvit in my "must-try" book. i've got to try angels. why? i tell the forum later. i am not sure sazanka is an mp, anyway i want a good scrub there. i am looking forward to the ball and dick manages from some of these mps. suzie wong. is this an mp?

fls

i definitely try bier garten to see if i can hit it off with someone nice.

phuqer mentions grace hotel coffee shop, i would pop in to see if i can score there, or just for titillation.

suk street itself. i like walking as long as its not too hot. maybe i bump into some totties. go-gos. patpon/soi cowboy/nep

i don't think this is my scene. but i want to see how a pinpong ball is popped and how a pussy can puff out the smoke.

nana carpark

again this is not my scene, but i am curious and try what happens.

tansak, you mention [CodeWord900] (http://isgprohibitedwords.info?CodeWord=CodeWord900)/sol, i initially listed sol for my must-visit book but now i realised it is conducted out in open in the bar area? so i pass that.

enhancer

i noted that there are some chemists along suk. as the backup, i am taking some cs from vietnam where i work at the moment.

gfes

thank for the heads up on not falling in love. hope not. but if it happens, i can take it i think.

i am not bothered with lts. to me it is not only physically exhausting but mentally draining. i must save some gas for the following day as well

almost forgot, can anyone tell me when i can get the "inside massage"

cheers

Joe Nailer

12-27-07, 02:17

Hello,

Can anyone help?

I need a sim for my mobile.

I understand that I can get one at MBK.

But until what time this place open?

My flight arrives at 8pm.

Or is there a place in Airport (new one) where I can buy one?

Thanks

Member #2041

12-27-07, 06:36

Gas, you can get a SIM card with a new Thai number at any 7-11, and there are several in the Nana and Biergarten area of Sukhumvit road. I paid 50 Baht for a 1-2-Call SIM card having 15 baht of time on it, and another 100 Baht for an refill time card, and that was all I needed for the 18 days of my trip. Grand total, under $5. No need to trek over to MBK just for a SIM card and a time refill card, any 7-11 will do fine.

Joe Nailer

12-27-07, 11:40

Dinghy

12-27-07, 12:41

7-11 at new BKK airport is at the bus plaza. Free shuttle to there from the terminal

M P Lurker

12-27-07, 13:11

thanks t1234, tansak,

re: hotels, it was too late to book a hotel along suk, so i opted for a one at petchburi road, near pantip plaza i think.

i have just read phuqer's report about his 5 day itinerary; i must say its quite comprehensive. my plan almost follows his ideas except shopping and sightseeing.

mps

i have put 5, 6 mps at various sois on sukhumvit in my "must-try" book. i've got to try angels. why? i tell the forum later. i am not sure sazanka is an mp, anyway i want a good scrub there. i am looking forward to the ball and dick manages from some of these mps. suzie wong. is this an mp?

fls

i definitely try bier garten to see if i can hit it off with someone nice.

phuqer mentions grace hotel coffee shop, i would pop in to see if i can score there, or just for titillation.

suk street itself. i like walking as long as its not too hot. maybe i bump into some totties. go-gos. patpon/soi cowboy/nep

i don't think this is my scene. but i want to see how a pinpong ball is popped and how a pussy can puff out the smoke.

nana carpark

again this is not my scene, but i am curious and try what happens.

tansak, you mention [CodeWord900] (http://isgprohibitedwords.info?CodeWord=CodeWord900)/sol, i initially listed sol for my must-visit book but now i realised it is conducted out in open in the bar area? so i pass that.

enhancer

i noted that there are some chemists along suk. as the backup, i am taking some cs from vietnam where i work at the moment.

gfes

thank for the heads up on not falling in love. hope not. but if it happens, i can take it i think.

i am not bothered with lts. to me it is not only physically exhausting but mentally draining. i must save some gas for the following day as well

almost forgot, can anyone tell me when i can get the "inside massage"

cheers
suzi wong is a gogo bar in soi cowboy. great for the oil show or the lesbian shaved pussy licking shows (be sure to get a front seat right at the gogo floor well before 10pm, so your view won't be blocked, and glasses if you are long sighted and might be too close to focus :d).

pussy smoking show is available at long gun nearby. might have to go to patpong for the pingpong (i don't know where as these shows don't turn me on at all).

yes sol is for the experienced monger like me who has seen (and been seen) everything. you can go to the back but its too cramped and awkward in my opinion. [CodeWord900] (http://isgprohibitedwords.info?CodeWord=CodeWord900) has curtains so you won't be on display.

not sure if the "grace coffee" shop is valuable way to spend time. i wouldn't bother, personally.

its worth experiencing a good body-slide massage at a soapy massage parlour in my opinion. it really turns me on but many mongers are over it for some reason. but i'm a wimp. i like the soft stuff. i wouldn't dare go to sazanka for a salt rub :eek:

Daddy San

12-27-07, 19:42

What is the TG's attitude towards photos?

Some of the pics in the Photo Gallery are downright 'open minded', with even the girls face showing aside from some other interesting parts of their anatomy.
Some obvously even enjoy showing off and being photographed.

Clearly, one must ask the girl's permission first, but will they generally consent or not?

Will they expect an extra tip and if so, what is appropriate?

Thanks for your input.

PinkPearl

12-28-07, 12:01

7-11 at new BKK airport is at the bus plaza. Free shuttle to there from the terminalBeer is available at the Burger King there, but not in Hong Kong.

Soi 19 McDonald's has a Samurai Pork Burger.

For those wondering if there will be anything to eat in BKK.

Joe Nailer

12-28-07, 14:30

7-11 at new BKK airport is at the bus plaza. Free shuttle to there from the terminalThanks Dinghy,

It woudl be perfect if I can get it at 7-11 at Airport.

This means I can contact my girl and to arrange a meet from Airport straight away. I emailed this girl from Angel's and she responded with her mobi number. Let's see what happens :D

Joe Nailer

12-28-07, 15:00

suzi wong is a gogo bar in soi cowboy. great for the oil show or the lesbian shaved pussy licking shows (be sure to get a front seat right at the gogo floor well before 10pm, so your view won't be blocked, and glasses if you are long sighted and might be too close to focus :d).

pussy smoking show is available at long gun nearby. might have to go to patpong for the pingpong (i don't know where as these shows don't turn me on at all).

yes sol is for the experienced monger like me who has seen (and been seen) everything. you can go to the back but its too cramped and awkward in my opinion. [CodeWord900] (http://isgprohibitedwords.info?CodeWord=CodeWord900) has curtains so you won't be on display.

not sure if the "grace coffee" shop is valuable way to spend time. i wouldn't bother, personally.

its worth experiencing a good body-slide massage at a soapy massage parlour in my opinion. it really turns me on but many mongers are over it for some reason. but i'm a wimp. i like the soft stuff. i wouldn't dare go to sazanka for a salt rub :eek:mick, yeah, funny.

of course, suzi wong, famous isnt it. (it must of slipped my mind) in fact i am short sighted. so i would go as close as i am allowed to. :d

these shows must be very mechanical, so i dont expect any turn-on. i just want to reminisce later on in my life "yeees, i have seen it and have a t-shirt to prove it" :)

sol and [CodeWord900] (http://isgprohibitedwords.info?CodeWord=CodeWord900) - pass

i had a korean massage a long time ago. it was very relaxing and soothing if i remember correctly.

Hoboken Michael

12-30-07, 00:03

As someone who has not travelled much around the world, my upcoming trip to Bangkok will serve as the first time that I will really have to worry about electricity differences (charging MP3 player, Playstation Portable). Research on the internet has shown me adapters and even transformers to buy but is not clear in addressing issues specifically about Thailand. I am wondering what all experienced mongers have brought to Thailand as far as voltage/adapters or possibly a small transformer.

I understand that the Electrical Specifications in Thailand: Voltage: 220 Volts
(U.S. voltage is 110-120 volts)

Frequency: 50 Hz
(U.S. frequency is 60 Hz)

What have you brought on your trips to Thailand to deal with both the voltage and the frequency difference? Also, any warning I should know about the non-polarized outlets in the country?

Thanks,

Michael

LittleBigMan

12-30-07, 02:38

HB,

I got kit from a chain store call Brookstone many years ago. It's like a Sharper Image Store. The unit is call a Dual wattage Travel Converter been using it for years never had a problem with the unit. Not sure whether you need one for a computer?

LBM

Member #3428

12-30-07, 03:21

What have you brought on your trips to Thailand to deal with both the voltage and the frequency difference? Also, any warning I should know about the non-polarized outlets in the country?

No issues...all phones (4 of them), all MP3 players, all computers, even my hair clippers, battery chargers, camera equipment, video equipment, etc... can all take dual voltage. Read your plugs or the converter on your equipment, they will say input ... if input is 110 - 220 then you don't need squat. I have only had a beard trimmer not be dual volatage ever. If... if... for some reason where you stay will not take your plug, you can buy some plug adapters for a few baht and I have never stayed at a place in BKK that would not take US style plugs.

Owl_

12-30-07, 10:07

Just check any power transformer you currently use for the electrical device that you plan on bring on your trip. They will almost always have a power input rated for 100-240 volts, so it'll work anywhere in the world as long as you have the correct plug adapter for that country. For Thailand they use mainly the blade like plugs we use in the US. I have taken my laptop, cellphones, and many other electronic devices and I have no problem what so ever.

Here is a link to information to power voltage around the world...

http://kropla.com/electric.htm

and a list of countries around the world and what their voltage rating is...

http://kropla.com/electric2.htm

As someone who has not travelled much around the world, my upcoming trip to Bangkok will serve as the first time that I will really have to worry about electricity differences (charging MP3 player, Playstation Portable). Research on the internet has shown me adapters and even transformers to buy but is not clear in addressing issues specifically about Thailand. I am wondering what all experienced mongers have brought to Thailand as far as voltage/adapters or possibly a small transformer.

I understand that the Electrical Specifications in Thailand: Voltage: 220 Volts
(U.S. voltage is 110-120 volts)

Frequency: 50 Hz
(U.S. frequency is 60 Hz)

What have you brought on your trips to Thailand to deal with both the voltage and the frequency difference? Also, any warning I should know about the non-polarized outlets in the country?

Thanks,

Michael

Retired Army

12-30-07, 14:03

Almost every Western style hotel has a 110/220 volt shaver plug in the bathroom. If you have something that isn't auto or dual voltage then just plug it into the 110 side of the shaver plug. It has enough power to charge a cell phone, MP-3 player or computer.

Freeler

01-02-08, 07:39

Hi,

This is not just a moneysaver, it's the convenience I like the most.
Remember juggling your cash quickly enough to get it in the slot before your credit went to zero while on a pay phone?
None of that no more!
And it's easy as 123 (and 4).

Here's how it goes:
Dial 1234 before the full telephone number.
Example:
Call to BKK, dial 1234-02-7654321

I made a five minute call from Isaan to BKK this morning and instead of tossing in one coin after the other,greatly disrupting the flow of the conversation, I had to throw in just one ten baht coin. Smooth as silk!

M P Lurker

01-02-08, 08:46

Giotto has drawn my attention to the latest sad news in Thailand, and indicated bars may close for a period.

Nation Multimedia News web site reports:

Government declares 15-day mourning
State officials and employees will mourn the death of HRH Princess Galyani Vadhana for 15 days and government offices and schools to lower flags at half mast in the same period.

Member #3428

01-02-08, 09:12

Giotto has drawn my attention to the latest sad news in Thailand, and indicated bars may close for a period.

Nation Multimedia News web site reports:

Considering the fact that I land in less then two days for two weeks of work, I'm already in route to BKK, and my work is WITH some areas that will be closed (just verified), I wonder WTF I'm going to do.

M P Lurker

01-02-08, 13:02

Considering the fact that I land in less then two days for two weeks of work, I'm already in route to BKK, and my work is WITH some areas that will be closed (just verified), I wonder WTF I'm going to do.
The MP girl said that the Mps and bars would stay open. Hope she is right. The Thais will apprciate it if you wear all black, or very dark, or black and white. Bright colours not recommended.

Member #3428

01-02-08, 21:49

The MP girl said that the Mps and bars would stay open. Hope she is right. The Thais will apprciate it if you wear all black, or very dark, or black and white. Bright colours not recommended.

Atleast there will be MP's, and it's reasons like this why it's always best to keep some phone numbers handy. As far as colors go, well that's all my suit's are (and I really only have suits packed), except of course I do have my red Ohio State University shirt just in case they win the college football game :)

I'll be there tomorrow, one more night in Philippines ;).

Taiwan Laowai

01-02-08, 22:50

To OTH and other resident experts

I've followed the posts on the Thai thread for awhile and noticed that references are often made about so-called class. Some of the classifications are no-brainers (the girls you see all around Ptya). But what really distinguishes the various non rice farmer/bargirl classes from each other?

- Is it mainly education, family net worth, family name, ethnicity (Central, Southern, Northern Thai, Thai Chinese, Issan natives, etc? ), schools attended, or some combination of these?

- How do you distinguish middle class Thais from the so-called Hi-Sos? What percentage of the Thai population falls into each of these two catagories and what is a typical family net worth range (low to high) for each?

- If a student attends Chul or Bankok U, are they automatically HiSo?

- Maybe someone could suggest a framework to figure out a local's class standing within Thailand.

- Also, if a Thai person born into the middle class showed initiative, studied hard, worked smart, and eventually amassed a fortune (whatever that is by Thai standards), would he/she and his/her future family automatically graduate to Hi So status? Now I realise this doesn't work for bargirls but what about the others?

Old Thai Hand

01-03-08, 02:28

To OTH and other resident expertsI've followed the posts on the Thai thread for awhile and noticed that references are often made about a local person's class. * Some of the classifications are no-brainers (the girls you see all around Ptya). * But what really distinguishes the non rice farmer/bargirl classes? * Is it education, family net worth, family name, ethnicity (Central, Southern, Northern Thai, Thai Chinese, Issan natives, etc? ), schools attended, or some combination of these? * How do you distinguish middle class Thais from the so-called Hi-Sos? * What percentage of the Thai population falls into the Hi So category and what percentage in the middle class category? * What would be a typical net worth range for a Hi-so family and for a middle class family? * Maybe someone could suggest a useful framework to figure out a local's class standing within Thailand. * Also, if a person born into the middle class showed initiative, studied hard, worked smart and hard, and eventually created a fortune (whatever that is by Thai standards), would he/she and his/her future family automatically graduate to Hi So status? * Now I realise this doesn't work for bargirls but what about the others?

Why do you want to know and why do you care? Just curious

Richo Stevens

01-03-08, 03:40

Why do you want to know and why do you care? Just curiousI would find it interesting, so if you have the time.

Taiwan Laowai

01-03-08, 03:44

In the non P4P arena, I think it is very useful to understand your counterparty so to speak. Reading between the lines of what's been said in this forum, it seems that the possibilities with non-pros are influenced a lot by the girl's standing in society with Hi So girls presenting the greatest challenge. I'm sure average and even below average looking Hi So girls exist as do smoking hot light skinned middle class girls. If one could easily distinguish between the two, then they might decide to approach the very attractive middle class girl (less rejection risk with great upside) while passing up the average looking Hi So (high rejection risk just to be with a plain girl).

Also, this is one area which I'm sure still confuses many a farang who want to better understand the society. I've had western friends in Thailand tell me about great experiences they've had with so called Hi So girls. But when I ask them what that mean by Hi So, they say things like she's light skinned, drives her own car, has a good job, etc, etc. I'm sure many of the Hi So girls we hear farangs talk about are in fact from modest backgrounds or even posers from the P4P arena.

A lot of other Thai cultural aspects have been discussed before in detail here. While these discussions may sometimes not appear to be directly related to mongering, I do believe they are useful and interesting to those of us who consider pursuing the mainstream girls. Also, I realise my questions were perhaps overly focused on details. Please excuse this. If nothing else, I'm just curious.

Tiger 888

01-03-08, 04:23

Why do you want to know and why do you care? Just curiousI consider this a very interesting question too.

Old Thai Hand

01-03-08, 10:24

I'm been lambasted in the past for setting myself up as some big authority on all of this and now tend to shy away from this topic.

I'll think about it and perhaps write something up. But, it would be interesting th hear from someone else, first, on their interpretation of all of this.

I will say that the assessment: having light-skin, having a good job and driving one's own car probably indicates a girl of more modest background rather than HiSo is probably correct. I will also say that this kind of girl, if accessable is a much better 'object of one's desire' than a HiSo girl because she at least may appreciate something resembling a honest day's work for wages, rather than unlimited access to daddy's Platinum card.

Perhaps, more later.

LittleBigMan

01-03-08, 22:47

Taiwan-Laowai,

I'll take a shot at this but remember I'm not OTH, when it comes to putting things in perpective. I'm no damn professor!

I'm not going to comment much on the skin color or the ethnicity of a Thai as the determinating factor on whether that will make them mid or high SO! Because it doesn't. And I don't have any income stats of Thailand that would give anyone any indication what status would place a Thai in either catagory.

For myself, if I give it a common sense approach I would say education, family net worth versus against how much debt, and family name. When it comes to family name if they are part of the Kings family yes I would guess they would also have money and assets to be in the Hi-So catagory! If I was meeting a Thai family and had no idea what that status might be I would be looking for car, size and location of house, business if any, profession of members of family. Combination of the above and particularly the larger the house and visiable assets and adult toys would give me a impression of their status. This would be a start in my book but certainly not a factual guide for anyone with any brain.

As to the answer to your question " Middle Class showed initiative, studies hard, worked smart and hard and eventually created a forture " my answer would be....

If it is the desire of someone who came from low or middle class and has amased a fortune and want to move up to Hi-So, they certainly can by obtaining enought materialistic property to indicate that they are in fact Hi-So. You can meet a Hi-So girl and even pay a large diary to marry her but how do you hide the fact that your parents and family are bare foot rice farmers so Hi-So doesn't look down on your family!

In the end if the girl comes from a Hi-So family and is not self-center nor materialistic and loves you for who you are and so does her family then you have a great women. In my opinion you can always buy your way into Hi-So but don't forget who put you on this earth and don't forget where you came from?

In my years of staying in Pattaya when I use to live in a small room my next door neighbor was this old man and women who came to our mini-mart to drink Chang beer. They live in a Tin can roof house and cook food to sell in the market every morning. He had a old side cart motorbike and a used pickup truck over 20 years old. He dressed in old Thai culture clothing and his land was below grade so when it rained hard his house would be flooded and usually saw him at night with a small light looking for snakes in the water. Many a nights I saw a friend of his who owned a old Toyota Hilux come over for dinner similiar dress and ate dinner with them and later came to my mini-mart to drink beer. I found out years later that the old man that live next door was one of the riches guys in Pattaya. He owned more land out towards the Reservoir than the eye can see! His friend I found out own the land and the room complex that I was renting along with thousand of Rai of land. He opened one of the biggest Car showrooms in Pattaya next to the International Language School and invited me and my wife to his opening. We all arrived in my neighbors old pickup truck and I only then found out that this was a huge event. While we sat under the tents I saw all his guest drive up getting out of BMW, Lexus, Bends, etc...with valet parking. HI-SO if I ever saw a event. Two rows in front of me was the Governor of Chon Buri, The Mayor of Pattaya, Chief of Police... T.V. Stations that was focus on Thai movie stars and singers. Here I was sitting with shorts and a dress shirt, thinking only in America! After having a big dinner and dancing it was time to leave. While everyone was waiting for their cars to be valet back. My wife and I walked quietly down Sukhumvit and when we were out of sight. Went to a motorbike Taxi stands and got our ride home with a laugh and smile on our faces.

To make a long story short both of these old men families all have grown up Hi-SO, but yet they haven't forgotten who they are and where they come from. The owner of the car dealership told me he can't stand his family because he feels he doesn't connect with them anymore. So he comes nightly to his old friend house to sit on the dirt floor and eat. I have lots of adimiration for these 2 olds guys they are dirt rich but haven't forgotten where they came from and their old friendship. Now that is rich and Hi-So to me!

How one views Hi-So and Lo-So, is to each his own and whatever makes you happy! Another of LBM, simple outlooks!

Jungle Bluebird

01-04-08, 03:58

Thailand class system.

Huge number of relatively poor people. About 60 million. Many of these people live on 20,000 THB a year! This is also the never ending source for all P4P talent.

Middle class, people with credit cards, loans, 2nd generation rural roots, having moved to the cities.

Very small group of super rich. Cost of a Ferrari is THB 22.5 million!

Girls: P4P girls come from the low end of Thailand society. Middle class girls usually marry middle class guys and do not end up hooking unless it’s under the GiG scheme. Marriage at @ 25 years of age is what the parents want and usually get. Increasingly though sweet, white skinned middle class girls may not marry at all - to the horror of their parents.

Hi so girls, offspring of the small number of super rich hardly go with foreigners. They do screw around, get caught on tape and make headlines but do not marry foreigners, unless loads of money is to be gained. Or call is social compatibility.

A note on the P4P girls. Uneducated, yet street smart. Due to upbringing and social back ground, they only chance for a proper job would be the super market or being a maid. Screwing at THB 30-50K a month obviously beats cleaning floors.

JB

Old Thai Hand

01-04-08, 04:57

JB has is distilled pretty well.

There is lots to add, of course. For one thing, I would say external shows of wealth are not always an indication of anything. There was a celebrated story a couple of months ago of a guy living large, who for years everyone thought was loaded, but who turned out to be living on credit and so in dept, that he killed himself when the creditors came knocking. The Thais have one of the largest credit-card debt per capita in the world.

The HiSo label is eagerly sought-after, but only held by a very select few. While there are plenty of wealthy people who may claim to be HiSo, they are in fact merely indulged at best by the truly HiSo - Old money vs. new money.

An example would be Taksin and his brood. Most Thais would consider him HiSo. But, in fact truly HiSo old money Thais consider him a HiSo wannabe. It would still cost you about a 6-10 million baht dowry to marry of one of his brats. But, he and his family are considered somewhat declasse by those that exist way up in the Thai ether.

As JB indicates, it would be highly unlikely that a Farang, unless extremely wealthy would ever get a shot at a HiSo girl, rich, HiSo wannabe or nearly HiSo, even for a fling.

Everything is about status in this country. Since Farang already carry a negative stigma, especially among the rich, one would have to be a celebrity (Leonardo di Caprio) or rich (Bill Gates) or royal (Princes William or Harry) or all three to get into this circle.

Taiwan-Laowai asked if there was some way to tell HiSo. Well, unfortunately they don't have it tattoed on their butts:D (or maybe some do, I don't know). So, it is hard to tell. If you know anything about family names, that would help. For, example if a girl has a last name 'Bunnag', she at least comes from a very old family, even if she personally may not be that rich. There are lots of economically, middle-class Bunnags (it's a huge family). But, they are still HiSo by association with this family. HiSo Thai-Chinese all have very long names, that often contain elements of the original Chinese name. This was in fact a racist policy put in place about 100 years ago to mark these people as different from Thais. Thai names usually have only 2 or sometimes 3 syllables, whether HiSo or not. Thai-Chinese names tend to be a minimum of 15 letters and some can have anywhere from 4-7 syllables. Often more recently arrived (since WWII) Chinese who have made their fortunes here in the last 60 years may still retain their Chinese name or at least have a shorter Thai name that they have adopted. A good example of this is the Sae-thong family. 'Sae' means clan. So, they are the Thong clan. Then there are the near royalty and there are lots of these around. If a girl has a 'Na' + the name of a place in her name - Na Songkhla, or Na Ayuthaya for example - then she's decended from royalty. Below I've attached a pic of the actress Benz...Pornchita Na Songkhla, whose grandfather was a minor prince. Note that she has darker skin and is not even remotely Thai-Chinese - pure ethnic Thai.

Light skin colour, while generally a pre-requisite to being HiSo is not absolute. True Thais, from the central region (Bangkok north to Ayyuthaya) are dark-skinned and some of these are old money HiSo Thais. The Chakris (The King and his family) are somewhat darker skinned than what is thought of as the 'normal' pallid HiSo complexion. I had a student a couple of years ago who was from Nakhon Sawan and quite dark, as is everyone from that region. Her family were filthy rich, and old money (going back at least 200 years). These Thais, while being darker tend to have very fine, distinct features that differ from other Thais.

HiSo Thais speak Thai differently, just a the HiSo in England speak English differently. There are different class accents here, just like anywhere. But, those can be acquired, like wealth - there's an ex-BG in my building who because she has a rich Farang bf, fancies herself HiSo and puts on the accent, especially when she talks to the "help". My Gf finds it quite off-putting because as she says, her family are probably as low if not lower than the maids to whom she is so condescending. Fortunately nobody is fooled, if for no other reason than she still dresses like and looks like a hooker - too much gold, for example is the dead give-away...HiSo Thai rarely wear much jewelry and certainly not the big Run DMC rapper chains that BGs wear.

If one wants to see HiSo girls and be sure that they are at least close to the genuine article, one need look no further than uni girls at the following universities: Chulalongkorn, Thammasat, Mahidol, Bangkok, Silpakorn, or go to Parragon and watch all the "Dek-noo" ( a slang term meaning children that don't have to do anything because they're so rich) shopping on the weekend.

The middle class girls - upper and lower - make up the lion's share of girls one encounters in some sort of educated professional life: whether, in some capacity well-above secretary in a company (although being a secretary still usually requires a university degree), their own business (shopowner etc.), teacher, entertainment business, and so forth. A lot of these tend to be Thai-Chinese of more modest means, or Thais from the better families in urban areas all over the country, even Isaan (not everyone in Isaan is a poor farmer).

IMHO, middle-class girls are the best chance a Farang has of finding a good TG, who isn't a gold-digger (either by temperment or necessity), because she has her own money, comes from a good family, but who lacks pretensions.

But as JB says, these type of girls often marry middle-class Thai guys. The only chance a Farang has of accessing one of these is to be here a long time, stay away from the P4P venues (at least be discreet), move in the same kind of circles, have a good job and speak some Thai.

If you're a visitor, forget it.

Opebo

01-04-08, 08:42

IMHO, middle-class girls are the best chance a Farang has of finding a good TG, who isn't a gold-digger (either by temperment or necessity), because she has her own money, comes from a good family, but who lacks pretensions.

But as JB says, these type of girls often marry middle-class Thai guys. The only chance a Farang has of accessing one of these is to be here a long time, stay away from the P4P venues (at least be discreet), move in the same kind of circles, have a good job and speak some Thai.

If you're a visitor forget it.

Of course why would a visitor be interested in such persons? No time to waste with tiresome experiences.

But I will point out that I have as a previous long-stayer and now as a permanent whatever had several 'middle class' girlfriends - basically I consider these people who have at least a BA, though more typically an MA, a professional job, drive a car, are afraid to ride on my motorbike, and whose family own at least one house that meets the 'western' standard. Most of my gf's have actually had lots and lots of real estate in the family, however. Some of my gf's have been of Isaan origin middle class (though 'chinese looking'), and some central Thai (dark, long nose).

The key as in any where else is that if she is very physically attractive she will probably already be married or will not be interested in a farang. If she's average or below average, she'll be very easy to get, particularly if over 30 and still unmarried. It is actually very common for professional women to be unmarried in Thailand as Thai men can't stand this type of woman. For me its never been necessary to have a 'good job', or any job at all, or even to speak much Thai as many girls speak some English. It helps of course to be below 40 and attractive.

However I can state that such involvements are a huge mistake for any farang - stick to P4P, its so much better.

PinkPearl

01-04-08, 11:24

There is lots to add, of course. For one thing, I would say external shows of wealth are not always an indication of anything. There was a celebrated story a couple of months ago of a guy living large, who for years everyone thought was loaded, but who turned out to be living on credit and so in dept, that he killed himself when the creditors came knocking. The Thais have one of the largest credit-card debt per capita in the world.That's how I'm going to go at the end, full of cancer or whatever cums my way. Max out 20 credit cards and live it up at NEP with no condom like Opebo. Finish in a blaze of ecstasy with white powder in the jugular. Yahoo!

Easy2007

01-04-08, 14:25

Of course why would a visitor be interested in such persons? No time to waste with tiresome experiences.

But I will point out that I have as a previous long-stayer and now as a permanent whatever had several 'middle class' girlfriends - basically I consider these people who have at least a BA, though more typically an MA, a professional job, drive a car, are afraid to ride on my motorbike, and whose family own at least one house that meets the 'western' standard. Most of my gf's have actually had lots and lots of real estate in the family, however. Some of my gf's have been of Isaan origin middle class (though 'chinese looking'), and some central Thai (dark, long nose).

The key as in any where else is that if she is very physically attractive she will probably already be married or will not be interested in a farang. If she's average or below average, she'll be very easy to get, particularly if over 30 and still unmarried. It is actually very common for professional women to be unmarried in Thailand as Thai men can't stand this type of woman. For me its never been necessary to have a 'good job', or any job at all, or even to speak much Thai as many girls speak some English. It helps of course to be below 40 and attractive.

However I can state that such involvements are a huge mistake for any farang - stick to P4P, its so much better.I would take it further than that, I for one have had plenty of middle class Thai's, either owning, or their parents owning, their own house, who drive nice Honda Civic's or Accords and have good jobs, or who were finishing their degree's at University.

Time is the key of course (as well as your ability to be discrete if required as some of these girls are shy about being "seen" with a farang too much in the open), if you are here long term the fruits that can ne enjoyed are endless, but as has been said, this is not for short term tourists to try, there is no point wasting time.

The old school are getting increasingly frustrated by all this behaviour, which is why they are more and more "concerned" over falling moral standards. But it is inevitable that change will come, and as much as the old school fights it, it cannot prevent it happening, and in time the lines that presently divide people will become more and more blurred.

Old money hates new money, thats a common theme in Asia, but old money is also falling into new hands, hands that nowadays do not care about the history or the future. Look at Indonesia, you'll see nearly every third generation is pissing away the money the first two generations worked hard to make...............but such is life :)

Maphrao

01-05-08, 01:02

Old Thai Hand

01-05-08, 04:17

However I can state that such involvements are a huge mistake for any farang - stick to P4P, its so much better.

You're entitle to your POV. But, since the origin of this topic was a sincere desire on the part of Taiwan Laowai to pursue NON-P4P TGs and wanting to know how to differentiate HiSo from those that may merely be MidSo, a comment about P4P being "better" is irrelevant.

Opebo, there are plenty of guys even on here who want a relationship; something that appears to scare you and/or bore you to distraction. The 3F philosophy is perfectly acceptable if one lives one's life as a perpetual teenager in a constant cycle of empy P4P experiences, as you do.

But, mature men ultimately prefer something a bit more substantial.

Hoboken Michael

01-05-08, 04:48

Greetings!

I have done a couple of searches of the Thailand forum and cannot quite find a clear answer to this question. Upon my first vacation trip to Bangkok in February, what can I expect from customs officials if I only have a binder with selected reports from this forum and various pics of girls from a couple escort agencies in Bangkok? If I say I am on vacation, I know that I am going to get questioned much more than another who says business and if the binder is not in my checked bags it might be less suspicious. Still, is there a chance that a customs official will actually peruse the binder and see that I am on a mongering vacation (whether or not he sees the pics or the reports)?

Thanks ahead of time for assistance.

Petemcc

01-05-08, 04:50

I know this probably doesn't add much to this thread, but it may help. I work with a Thai nurse. She's very light skinned, from Bangkok, and her English is perfect. She told me she learnt English at school, and did her nursing qualification in Thailand. She is a wee bit chunky, though tall, but cute as, and a lovely girl as well. She lives here in Oz and has a boyfriend-lucky bastard. So it seems that there are middle class, well educated, English speaking Thai girls out there who like farangs. Just an observation.
Cheers
Pete

Leo2000

01-05-08, 06:29

greetings!

i have done a couple of searches of the thailand forum and cannot quite find a clear answer to this question. upon my first vacation trip to bangkok in february, what can i expect from customs officials if i only have a binder with selected reports from this forum and various pics of girls from a couple escort agencies in bangkok? if i say i am on vacation, i know that i am going to get questioned much more than another who says business and if the binder is not in my checked bags it might be less suspicious. still, is there a chance that a customs official will actually peruse the binder and see that i am on a mongering vacation (whether or not he sees the pics or the reports)?

thanks ahead of time for assistance.hi,

i woud advice not to carry the pic's & info., in a worst case if the customs go thru your bags, chances are remote, if there in doubt they tell you to put your bags thru the xray.

once they lay there hands with pics they will surely know that you have come to mongering and also you will looking for sex with **** girls, which is serious.

why carry with you.. just upload them to your emails and then go thru them in the netcafes, a far safe way. i am frequest vistor to thai & se for the past 10 yrs.

i don't know from which country you are from, even these could land you in trouble with the imigration / customs if your are flying out us. in case your are us national, my advice is alo not to take back any of pic's back home. the guys luv to screw back the vistors coming back from bkk, vet or combodia as they know these places are sex paradise. they go thru your lap top & digi cameras also.

cheers

Allover

01-05-08, 07:26

Hoboken Michael:

You did not indicate if you are smuggling the info into Thailand or into the U.S. I would worry more about U.S. customs than Thai. I would suggest e-mailing the reports and photos to yourself using g-mail, hotmail, yahoo, excite, etc.

Owl_

01-05-08, 08:06

I think that Thailand Customs won't do anything more then just stamp your passport and call for the next person in line after you tell them you are a tourist on vacation. With the amount of people who visit Thailand, customs doesn't have time to question anyone who is a tourist that is coming into their country. And there are hundreds of thousands that visit Thailand each year. I have been to Thailand for the past three years and when I get to the customs desk at Bangkok airport and show my American passport he stamps it and I'm on my way to pick up my luggage and find my driver. The biggest delay is getting to the customs desk as there are usually hundreds of other people waiting in line with you. As long as your passport is in order and you've filled out the entry/exit card properly, you will be fine. I carry onto the plane my backpack with my laptop, digitial camera, cellphone and video camera and reading material and they haven't ever looked at it once.

Unless you hit him on the head with your binder they are never going to look at it or care about it!

I'd stay away from the escort services in Bangkok as they are all way over priced. If you've visited the Thailand forum websites they will suggest you go to the beer bars or go-go or pick up the girls from the Nana hotel parking lot rather call for escorts.

The following are Pattaya forum websites that I visit but they all have information on the action in Bangkok and other Thailand cities...

http://www.pattaya-addicts.com
http://www.**************.com
http://www.pattayatalk.com

Greetings!

I have done a couple of searches of the Thailand forum and cannot quite find a clear answer to this question. Upon my first vacation trip to Bangkok in February, what can I expect from customs officials if I only have a binder with selected reports from this forum and various pics of girls from a couple escort agencies in Bangkok? If I say I am on vacation, I know that I am going to get questioned much more than another who says business and if the binder is not in my checked bags it might be less suspicious. Still, is there a chance that a customs official will actually peruse the binder and see that I am on a mongering vacation (whether or not he sees the pics or the reports)?

Thanks ahead of time for assistance.

Easy2007

01-05-08, 08:33

Hello, guys,

Years ago there was the famous bangkokchat very powerful and perfectly crowded. It was funny to chat from europe, find new girls from abroad and then meet for real, I add some good expereiences (in addition to the numerous other possibilities) nowadays bangkokchat has changed, it is empty and in spite of many searches I didn't found any good chat with a lot of people.

If you have some good technical idea I would appreciate.Ah yes, the good old days of BangkokChat. It was wonderful and I used it exclusively for a period of time, you could find working girls looking for a fix up, and also normal girls looking for fun, and students looking to find money on the side. I used to get a couple of new girls every week, one for Sat and one for Sun.

However, certain idiots decided they would be abusive on it, and the Police in the end listed it as a site to be watched owing to reports in the media about chat sites being used for P4P purposes, and the owners got shut down and yes, now its back but its completely useless.

Never mind, you have given me a quick reminder of how wonderful it used to be, so many nice memories.

It needs someone to start it up again, on a site hosted outside Thailand, and back to the old way, no registration, no real rules and chat about what you want.

Tiger 888

01-05-08, 10:18

I think that Thailand Customs won't do anything more then just stamp your passport and call for the next person in line after you tell them you are a tourist on vacation. I have never seen customs stamping a passport. And they don't check most of the crowds, but they do pick people at random. I might be wrong, but I think they are more after the second bottle of Spirits or the excess cigarettes.

PinkPearl

01-05-08, 11:39

1. You're entitle to your POV. But, since the origin of this topic was a sincere desire on the part of Taiwan Laowai to pursue NON-P4P TGs and wanting to know how to differentiate HiSo from those that may merely be MidSo, a comment about P4P being "better" is irrelevant.

2. Opebo, there are plenty of guys even on here who want a relationship; something that appears to scare you and/or bore you to distraction. The 3F philosophy is perfectly acceptable if one lives one's life as a perpetual teenager in a constant cycle of empy P4P experiences, as you do.

But, mature men ultimately prefer something a bit more substantial.1. I would offer IMO that it is relevant for the sake of any farang reader including the best interests of TL. Even more so in light of the constantly hilarious remarks claiming ladies at Siam are so much more hot than those at Nana, & other such drivel. The integrity of this site demands a response.

2. More food for comedy here. From one who comes across as quite miserable in so many posts, why should anyone take you seriously? You claim Grumpy is an online persona you invented, and in real life you are a mild manered Clark Kent, or Opebo, but I believe we get the real you.

This forum allows you to vent about the hypocrisies of Thai culture which you can only dream of doing in the classroom.

John Euro

01-05-08, 16:05

Greetings!

I only have a binder with selected reports from this forum and various pics of girls from a couple escort agencies in Bangkok?

is there a chance that a customs official will actually peruse the binder and see that I am on a mongering vacation .You would not have a problem with customs when entering in Thailand but this is how Mr. Jackson thinks about your binder with copy’s from his website. LOL? Or maybe not?

"ALL images, text, and graphics are COPYRIGHTED material!. However, you MUST have our express written consent before proceeding. So, please don't copy, steal or alter any images or graphics from this web site.

J. E.

Gangles

01-05-08, 16:42

I have been introduced to a thai woman via a mutual friend. Although she did not talk about her situation, I insisted on visiting her family house to find out about her. Turns out that her father has a successful business, large family house, all mod cons, couple of cars, couple of motor cycles, 2 trucks etc.

So she is independent, and has not asked me for a thing.

She dotes on me, and we always have wonderful times together. At first, she was very reserved about sex, but once she had her first orgasm, and her first daty, she has blossomed, not insatiable, but always ready for more.

This is something I have also found in the Philippines, their men either do not know how to sexually satisfy their women, or don't care, or both.

And I have been told quite a few times that both filipina and Thai women know that falangs take care of their sexual needs, and this certainly adds to the attraction. So in some ways, we have an advantage over the local men.

Dinghy

01-05-08, 18:51

john - I have no idea of whether your post was in jest or not - but it's like this - "copyright" ONLY applies to "reuse" - YOU can COPY anything YOU want and as long as YOU don't sell it or republish it (it's for YOUR PERSONAL USE) YOU have no problem with copyright laws. it's what's called "fair use" and it's what has the music industry so up in arms - IF you were to make it available other than thru the originating site, YOU would have a problem. A binder of clips and printouts is OK

Traveler1234

01-05-08, 18:59

Greetings!

Still, is there a chance that a customs official will actually peruse the binder and see that I am on a mongering vacation (whether or not he sees the pics or the reports)?

Thanks ahead of time for assistance.

Entering LOS won't be a problem, but I would be careful when you return stateside. If LOS is your only stop, others have reported customs searching their hard drive, etc.

Enjoy

LittleBigMan

01-05-08, 22:51

Look buddy, you are going to be mongering in Thailand not doing a case study you must work for IRS, othewise you wouldn't be so somwhat anal in my opinion to putting yourself in a situation with the U.S custom.
If you can't remember things make some note on a notepad and if you are interested in a photo some other member placed on the Photo thread make a copy and tug it away. I have a excellent memory and have printed a copy of a girl picture before and when I got to the go-go bar, even with the picture I could'nt point her out. What are you going to do walk around with the binder. Save yourself the aggrevation and trouble and go to a internet shop and log on to ISG and bone up!

In Thailand immigration you have a 2 step process the last step is half ass. When you get off the airplane after a long walk you will get to Immigration they will check you passport and stamp it. After you pick up your luggage as you are going out there is a check point. I believe there is a area for paying duty and a area that you don't have any duty. Most tourist would be this area. You will see a few guys in uniform standing around and a X-ray machine. You will seldom be searched if your luggage is a normal looking like a suitcase, etc... and just walk pass them with everyone else. Don't pay mind to them. But if you have large boxes and coolers and rubbermaid tubs from my experience you are going to be 99% stop. I have on a regular bases arrived at the airport with boxes of supplies from the U.S. instead of the normal luggage each time I was pulled over and had my boxes inspected or X-ray. I just let them know that I married to a Thai and that everything is for them and the house. Garbage bags and all!

When you come home to the U.S. As soon as you hit immigration the first one you hear out of the guys is " What was you doing in Thailand " This itself is a red flag! They are thinking were you there for the little Boys ? So whatever the chances leave the binder at home.
That's just my opinion! LBM

Dickhead

01-05-08, 23:23

Pure Power

01-06-08, 00:38

I use Ambien to sleep on planes. I would like to bring it into Thailand with me. It will be in a small cardboard box, not a pill bottle. The box is written in Spanish and it says in Spanish that this is a prescription drug. But, I don't have a prescription (because in reality many pharmacies here will sell it without a prescription). So:

1) Maybe they sell it in Thailand and there is no point to bringing it in but then could somebody tell me what the fuck it is called over there?
2) What is the chance they will search my luggage?
3) If they do, what is the chance these pills will upset them?
4) If the pills upset them and I play dumb and say, "Well, just throw them away then; I did not know there was a problem," will I do years and years in a Thai penitentiary?
5) Would I be better off with the box in my pocket or in my luggage?Just get a small Advil or Tylenol bottle and put them in there with the other pills. Always works for me.

I bring a few Xannax and Percocets with me when ever I travel and have never had a problem with TSA.

El Greco

01-06-08, 00:43

I use Ambien to sleep on planes. I would like to bring it into Thailand with me. It will be in a small cardboard box, not a pill bottle. The box is written in Spanish and it says in Spanish that this is a prescription drug. But, I don't have a prescription (because in reality many pharmacies here will sell it without a prescription). So:

1) Maybe they sell it in Thailand and there is no point to bringing it in but then could somebody tell me what the fuck it is called over there?
2) What is the chance they will search my luggage?
3) If they do, what is the chance these pills will upset them?
4) If the pills upset them and I play dumb and say, "Well, just throw them away then; I did not know there was a problem," will I do years and years in a Thai penitentiary?
5) Would I be better off with the box in my pocket or in my luggage?

Take whatever you wish with you. I have been many-many times to Thailand and they never stoped me for inspection.
Go through the green, nothing to declare, channel.
I use Stilnox and I always carry them with me on long flights.
They might stop Thais but not the tourists. Dont't worry.

The only thing that the immigration officer might ask you is how long do you intend to stay.

Suerte

El Greco

Dickhead

01-06-08, 00:53

Gracias griego. Normally when I go through immigration I present my return ticket along with my passport. I have a ticket out of the country 15-16 days after I arrive.

El Greco

01-06-08, 05:37

Gracias griego. Normally when I go through immigration I present my return ticket along with my passport. I have a ticket out of the country 15-16 days after I arrive.

If you like going to the beach try the very popular Jomtien to the south or the Wongamat to the north.

Have fun.

Owl_

01-06-08, 07:32

You have never seen the customs official stamp your passport??? Do you mean that you do not watch the customs official as he stamps your passport with the date upon which you enter their country? When they stamp your passport upon entering Thailand, they use a stamp to mark your passport and it will have the date when you arrived and the date your stay is good until, which is usually 30 days from the time you arrive. When you enter Hong Kong, they stamp your passport with the date you arrive and another stamp which states that you are allowed to stay in Hong Kong for 90 days. You should be right there standing at the customs desk looking right at the official doing his job stamping your passport! I really don't understand what you mean that you have never seen customs stamp a passport! You should alway be watching what anyone is doing with your passport if it leaves your hand.

And the likelihood of customs stopping a person because he has a binder with information in it is highly unlikely as I stated. I didn't say that people did not get stopped by customs. I said that if his passport was in order and he filled out his entry/exit papers were in order that he would make it thought customs with his binder without any problem.

Read what LittleBigMan wrote about his experience and advice entering Thailand below. If you look like a tourist and have normal tourist looking stuff and baggage, then you are going to walk right on through with out customs ever giving you a second glance. If you have it in a backpack to put the binder in they will never even see it As i think that this person has never traveled out the the country before and he is worrying about nothing. As for having references information to places to go while in Thailand, be it massage parlors and go-gos and beer bars or night clubs, there is no law in Thailand against having it that I know of! Unless of course it child porn! But he only talked about...

"selected reports from this forum and various pics of girls from a couple escort agencies in Bangkok?"

I have never seen customs stamping a passport. And they don't check most of the crowds, but they do pick people at random. I might be wrong, but I think they are more after the second bottle of Spirits or the excess cigarettes.

Fast Eddie 48

01-06-08, 07:46

Petemcc

01-06-08, 09:07

You have never seen the customs official stamp your passport??? Do you mean that you do not watch the customs official as he stamps your passport with the date upon which you enter their country? When they stamp your passport upon entering Thailand, they use a stamp to mark your passport and it will have the date when you arrived and the date your stay is good until, which is usually 30 days from the time you arrive. When you enter Hong Kong, they stamp your passport with the date you arrive and another stamp which states that you are allowed to stay in Hong Kong for 90 days. You should be right there standing at the customs desk looking right at the official doing his job stamping your passport! I really don't understand what you mean that you have never seen customs stamp a passport! You should alway be watching what anyone is doing with your passport if it leaves your hand.

And the likelihood of customs stopping a person because he has a binder with information in it is highly unlikely as I stated. I didn't say that people did not get stopped by customs. I said that if his passport was in order and he filled out his entry/exit papers were in order that he would make it thought customs with his binder without any problem.

Read what LittleBigMan wrote about his experience and advice entering Thailand below. If you look like a tourist and have normal tourist looking stuff and baggage, then you are going to walk right on through with out customs ever giving you a second glance. If you have it in a backpack to put the binder in they will never even see it As i think that this person has never traveled out the the country before and he is worrying about nothing. As for having references information to places to go while in Thailand, be it massage parlors and go-gos and beer bars or night clubs, there is no law in Thailand against having it that I know of! Unless of course it child porn! But he only talked about...

"selected reports from this forum and various pics of girls from a couple escort agencies in Bangkok?"
Customs officials should have fuck all to do with your passport, it's the immigration officials who do that in every country I have been to. There is a difference believe it or not.

Owl_

01-06-08, 09:46

Thank you for pointing out my mistake in grouping the two department together as one, since they work together seamlessly. But if you cannot make it through customs into a country, then they do have a say on what happens in immigrations with your passport.

Customs officials should have fuck all to do with your passport, it's the immigration officials who do that in every country I have been to. There is a difference believe it or not.

PinkPearl

01-06-08, 10:20

A note on the P4P girls. Uneducated, yet street smart. Due to upbringing and social back ground, they only chance for a proper job would be the super market or being a maid. Screwing at THB 30-50K a month obviously beats cleaning floors.

JBHas anyone found some P4P ladies to be showing signs of possible drug use? For example, eyes often pop up towards the top of the head, so that only the white of the eye is seen. Or eating lots of sugary junk food like heroin addicts do? Or tweaking?

Tiger 888

01-06-08, 11:45

Thank you for pointing out my mistake in grouping the two department together as one, since they work together seamlessly. But if you cannot make it through customs into a country, then they do have a say on what happens in immigrations with your passport.Whether they work seaminglessly together or not, Immigration don't care what you smuggle and customs don't give a sh.. on how long you overstay. And in Thailand you go through immigration first, then get your luggage and then go through custroms. Completely separate procedures.

Traveler1234

01-06-08, 14:49

I use Ambien to sleep on planes.

1) Maybe they sell it in Thailand and there is no point to bringing it in but then could somebody tell me what the fuck it is called over there?
2) What is the chance they will search my luggage?
3) If they do, what is the chance these pills will upset them?
4) If the pills upset them and I play dumb and say, "Well, just throw them away then; I did not know there was a problem," will I do years and years in a Thai penitentiary?
5) Would I be better off with the box in my pocket or in my luggage?

All non-issues in LOS to customs when entering the country

Dirty Tom

01-07-08, 10:16

Hello friends,

I have RTFF the thread here and also seen the much suggested 5 day report in the distinctions section by Phaquer (or something like that).

I also came across posts which said that the gals in BKK are pure prostitutes and very ugly. That kinda concerned me because I am used to the beautiful (or so I feel) babes from Ipanema in OT (Singapore) and do not want to settle with any ugly ones on my first ever monger-trip to BKK next month.

One thing that I still find unanswered is that how to get the better looking gals, and not the roadside cheap prostitutes (I often read about the Nana hotel parking lot) - not sure how those gals are but from the pics in the Photos section they do not look all that beautiful.

Please do not come back asking me to RTFF the thread, if you can help me - please suggest where to stay so that I am closer to the beautiful gals pick up joint and where to look for the beauties.

I ain't expecting JLos or Tata Young kinds... but if you have seen some of the very cute and good looking Viet babes from Ipanema in Sing, you would know...

One more thing that I intend to try out is the soapy massage... have dreamt about it for a long time now :)

Suggestions / comments welcome!
-R.

Mouse1

01-07-08, 15:14

You can find beautiful girls all over SE Asia. I have picked up a few stunners in OT Singapore, and quite a few in BKK. The big difference for me is cost/attitude, where BKK wins hands down IMHO. The other difference is make-up - and you are more likely to be 'seduced' by a girl wearing full war-paint in Ipanema than a secretay earning some extra cash by working at the Beergarden or Nana car-park. If you want the full glamour look try the discos and the go-go bars. But as many reports will tell you, the most beautiful girls will not always provide the best experience (in fact usually the opposite). But in any case, you will not have to settle with ugly ones if you don't want to.

Traveler1234

01-07-08, 15:44

I am used to the beautiful (or so I feel) babes from Ipanema in OT (Singapore) and do not want to settle with any ugly ones on my first ever monger-trip to BKK next month.

-R.

I could not help but laugh at your post. If you think the Ipanema babes are 'beautiful', what makes you think LOS will be different? They all come from the same stock.

Relax, find a nice place in Sukhumvit area and have a good time.

Thor93

01-07-08, 16:35

I ran across this article in the New York Times concerning the latest court cases going on about US customs checking laptops. Basically it sounds like if you do have any kind of pictures on there, keep them encrypted and don't offer up the password if asked. I have never been checked in all my many years and trips, but you never know when "big brother" will take an interest in you.
****************
January 7, 2008
Sidebar
If Your Hard Drive Could Testify ...
By ADAM LIPTAK
A couple of years ago, Michael T. Arnold landed at the Los Angeles International Airport after a 20-hour flight from the Philippines. He had his laptop with him, and a customs officer took a look at what was on his hard drive. Clicking on folders called “Kodak pictures” and “Kodak memories,” the officer found child pornography.

The search was not unusual: the government contends that it is perfectly free to inspect every laptop that enters the country, whether or not there is anything suspicious about the computer or its owner. Rummaging through a computer’s hard drive, the government says, is no different than looking through a suitcase.

One federal appeals court has agreed, and a second seems ready to follow suit.

There is one lonely voice on the other side. In 2006, Judge Dean D. Pregerson of Federal District Court in Los Angeles suppressed the evidence against Mr. Arnold.

“Electronic storage devices function as an extension of our own memory,” Judge Pregerson wrote, in explaining why the government should not be allowed to inspect them without cause. “They are capable of storing our thoughts, ranging from the most whimsical to the most profound.”

Computer hard drives can include, Judge Pregerson continued, diaries, letters, medical information, financial records, trade secrets, attorney-client materials and — the clincher, of course — information about reporters’ “confidential sources and story leads.”

But Judge Pregerson’s decision seems to be headed for reversal. The three judges who heard the arguments in October in the appeal of his decision seemed persuaded that a computer is just a container and deserves no special protection from searches at the border. The same information in hard-copy form, their questions suggested, would doubtless be subject to search.

The United States Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit, in Richmond, Va., took that position in a 2005 decision. It upheld the conviction of John W. Ickes Jr., who crossed the Canadian border with a computer containing child pornography. A customs agent’s suspicions were raised, the court’s decision said, “after discovering a video camera containing a tape of a tennis match which focused excessively on a young ball boy.”

It is true that the government should have great leeway in searching physical objects at the border. But the law requires a little more — a “reasonable suspicion” — when the search is especially invasive, as when the human body is involved.

Searching a computer, said Jennifer M. Chacón, a law professor at the University of California, Davis, “is fairly intrusive.” Like searches of the body, she said, such “an invasive search should require reasonable suspicion.”

An interesting supporting brief filed in the Arnold case by the Association of Corporate Travel Executives and the Electronic Frontier Foundation said there have to be some limits on the government’s ability to acquire information.

“Under the government’s reasoning,” the brief said, “border authorities could systematically collect all of the information contained on every laptop computer, BlackBerry and other electronic device carried across our national borders by every traveler, American or foreign.” That is, the brief said, “simply electronic surveillance after the fact.”

The government went even further in the case of Sebastien Boucher, a Canadian who lives in New Hampshire. Mr. Boucher crossed the Canadian border by car about a year ago, and a customs agent noticed a laptop in the back seat.

Asked whether he had child pornography on his laptop, Mr. Boucher said he was not sure. He said he downloaded a lot of pornography but deleted child pornography when he found it.

Some of the files on Mr. Boucher’s computer were encrypted using a program called Pretty Good Privacy, and Mr. Boucher helped the agent look at them, apparently by entering an encryption code. The agent said he saw lots of revolting pornography involving children.

The government seized the laptop. But when it tried to open the encrypted files again, it could not. A grand jury instructed Mr. Boucher to provide the password.

But a federal magistrate judge quashed that subpoena in November, saying that requiring Mr. Boucher to provide it would violate his Fifth Amendment right against self-incrimination. Last week, the government appealed.

The magistrate judge, Jerome J. Niedermeier of Federal District Court in Burlington, Vt., used an analogy from Supreme Court precedent. It is one thing to require a defendant to surrender a key to a safe and another to make him reveal its combination.

The government can make you provide samples of your blood, handwriting and the sound of your voice. It can make you put on a shirt or stand in a lineup. But it cannot make you testify about facts or beliefs that may incriminate you, Judge Niedermeier said.

“The core value of the Fifth Amendment is that you can’t be made to speak in ways that indicate your guilt,” Michael Froomkin, a law professor at the University of Miami, wrote about the Boucher case on his Discourse.net blog.

But Orin S. Kerr, a law professor at the George Washington University, said Judge Niedermeier had probably gotten it wrong. “In a normal case,” Professor Kerr said in an interview, “there would be a privilege.” But given what Mr. Boucher had already done at the border, he said, making him provide the password again would probably not violate the Fifth Amendment.

There are all sorts of lessons in these cases. One is that the border seems be a privacy-free zone. A second is that encryption programs work. A third is that you should keep your password to yourself. And the most important, as my wife keeps telling me, is that you should leave your laptop at home.

Dirty Tom

01-07-08, 17:50

I could not help but laugh at your post. If you think the Ipanema babes are 'beautiful', what makes you think LOS will be different? They all come from the same stock.

Relax, find a nice place in Sukhumvit area and have a good time.

Thanks, but I understand that your relaxed attitude comes from your prior experiences at BKK - it will be my first... so thats why it concerns me :)

Dirty Tom

01-07-08, 17:50

Thor93

01-07-08, 19:00

So should I assume that within the lot of all of them, I should be able to find the good ones pretty easy?

Here is a hint, go into most any bar, take out a couple of 1000 baht notes and wave them around. The best looking girls will materialize in front of your eyes.

Seriously, in Bkk it is absolutely no problem to find top notch girls. You just may have to pay a bit more for the very best, but then most Thai girls in the P4P venues are pretty decent to start with.

There are few places in the world where good looking women are as readily available as they are in Thailand. Of course you have to like Asian women, not many big breasted blondes available in Thailand.

I have spent a lot of time in Ipanema and the old Top Ten in Singapore. There are places in Bkk where the selection is better. Go top dollar and head to Spasso's or CM2. You will pay more, but the girls are made up and dressed to kill. Of course they are no different then what you get down at the go-go bars. You just have to pay for the make-up and clothes.

Another option is to head on down to Livingstones or the other bars on Soi 33. You will pay more but the quality is theorectically better. Real life though is you can find top quality in a lot of different places. Just go and look.

Member #2041

01-07-08, 21:05

One thing that I still find unanswered is that how to get the better looking gals, and not the roadside cheap prostitutes (I often read about the Nana hotel parking lot) - not sure how those gals are but from the pics in the Photos section they do not look all that beautiful. -R.
You're absolutely correct - they're mostly all ugly. I suggest you stay home, or keep frequenting those other venues you are used to, and leave the ugly Thai ladies for all of the rest of us.

Dinghy

01-07-08, 23:51

Thor - with 8gb flash drives out there for $50 or so and given that they are "tiny" (pocket sized - about the size of a pack of chewing gum) and easily encrypted as well, why would someone keep pix on the hard drive? They can look at my laptop anytime they want - my pix are actually on a card in my pocket (and it's also encrypted). You don't carry anything on the computer you don't want them to see. Better yet give them something mundane

In the case of Ickes - what if he stands up and says "I don't remember it any more". He shouldn't have "refused" - just have taken the lawyer's approach of "not to my recollection - I don't remember". Then they can go [CodeWord140] (http://isgprohibitedwords.info?CodeWord=CodeWord140) up a rope

Traveler1234

01-08-08, 00:00

Thanks, but I understand that your relaxed attitude comes from your prior experiences at BKK - it will be my first... so thats why it concerns me :)

Actually, as I get older (and older), I am less picky with looks and more concerned with service. If you're uptight about getting 9/10's, you'll end up jacking off rather than having fun.....

If you are really worried, suggest you go to some of the upscale private clubs or escort services....you'll get your 9/10 lookers but for a price. I can't guaranee service....maybe others might be more helpful

:D

Traveler1234

01-08-08, 00:05

thor - with 8gb flash drives out there for $50 or so and given that they are "tiny" (pocket sized - about the size of a pack of chewing gum) and easily encrypted as well, why would someone keep pix on the hard drive?

it's so easy to set up email accounts for free...gmail, yahoo, etc have virtually unlimited storage capacity - upload and keep out of sight. if something happens to you, your email disappears from the public forever!

ps - above assumes you're not some fucking pervert hiding child porn or other shit. and slightly off topic - us laws now say that if you engage in **** sex/prostitution overseas, you can and will be prosecuted in us courts. be good boys ;)

SidTheSexist

01-08-08, 00:57

every month or so the topic of hard drive searches are brought up. i can never help but wonder what the fuck some of you guys are so scared of getting caught with. surely so long as you are not doing anything wrong, ie **** boys etc, then what can be so bad that a customs official is going to bang you up for. as long as the girls in the pictures clearly willing and do not look as though they have been forced into the shots, who gives two shits about where you store the images. and for christ sake, you have managed to sign up to an internet forum to ask these questions, why does it take trav1234 to tell you to set up a hotmail add with 10gb storage, every time the question is asked.
sid

Dirty Tom

01-08-08, 06:47

Thanks buddy - that was really what I wanted to know. It helps :).
Is Livingstones bar the same as the Livingstone Lodge or is it different from it?
Good luck!

Here is a hint, go into most any bar, take out a couple of 1000 baht notes and wave them around. The best looking girls will materialize in front of your eyes.

Seriously, in Bkk it is absolutely no problem to find top notch girls. You just may have to pay a bit more for the very best, but then most Thai girls in the P4P venues are pretty decent to start with.

There are few places in the world where good looking women are as readily available as they are in Thailand. Of course you have to like Asian women, not many big breasted blondes available in Thailand.

I have spent a lot of time in Ipanema and the old Top Ten in Singapore. There are places in Bkk where the selection is better. Go top dollar and head to Spasso's or CM2. You will pay more, but the girls are made up and dressed to kill. Of course they are no different then what you get down at the go-go bars. You just have to pay for the make-up and clothes.

Another option is to head on down to Livingstones or the other bars on Soi 33. You will pay more but the quality is theorectically better. Real life though is you can find top quality in a lot of different places. Just go and look.

Shomohin

01-08-08, 08:35

every month or so the topic of hard drive searches are brought up. i can never help but wonder what the fuck some of you guys are so scared of getting caught with. surely so long as you are not doing anything wrong, ie **** boys etc, then what can be so bad that a customs official is going to bang you up for. as long as the girls in the pictures clearly willing and do not look as though they have been forced into the shots, who gives two shits about where you store the images.
sid

you've obviously never been hassled by a over-zealous customs agent who is looking for evidence of child pornography and finds pics of perfectly legal but young looking girls. not fun, and potentially devastating. which is why some people do indeed give two shits.

Daddy San

01-08-08, 09:31

You've obviously never been hassled by a over-zealous customs agent who is looking for evidence of child pornography and finds pics of perfectly legal but young LOOKING girls. Not fun, and potentially devastating. Which is why some people do indeed give two shits.To avoid ANY kind of hassle (from customs, wifey and any other inquisitive folks), I simply encrypt the containers with my whoring files using PGPdisk. TrueCrypt is just as good. DON'T use Windiws file encryption. This automatically decrypts all files as soon as you log in (or so I believe).

Thor93

01-08-08, 20:18

Thanks buddy - that was really what I wanted to know. It helps :).
Is Livingstones bar the same as the Livingstone Lodge or is it different from it?
Good luck!

Yes, it is technically the Livingstones Sports Bar which is located in the Livingstone Lodge. You can even put the girls bar fine on your hotel bill. For those of you on an expense account it shows up as an innocent looking charge from the bar. It might even be more generic than that.

It it possible to go there and spend a week or two and never leave the hotel and have a different girl every night, although I suspect that might cause some problems with the girls. You would be pegged as the ultimate butterfly.

Traveler1234

01-08-08, 21:33

Yes, it is technically the Livingstones Sports Bar which is located in the Livingstone Lodge. You can even put the girls bar fine on your hotel bill. For those of you on an expense account it shows up as an innocent looking charge from the bar. It might even be more generic than that.

It it possible to go there and spend a week or two and never leave the hotel and have a different girl every night, although I suspect that might cause some problems with the girls. You would be pegged as the ultimate butterfly.

Rbamane

Besides the bar in livingstone's lodge, there are a plethora of bars up/down Soi 33. Two of my favorites are Monet and The Office. If you do decide to patronize these 'upscale' bars, first do your homework on which ones to avoid, etc. Giotto did a good summary of these bars on his thread.

Plus the barfines and ST/LT costs are substantially higher on Soi 33 than say Nana or Soi Cowboy (but less than escort services or private 'clubs').

As far as being a butterfly, don't listen to Tho; 93 - first, he's being overly modest; second, the girls at Livingstones luv butterflies, especially those that carry a lot of green :D

Thor93

01-08-08, 23:30

Rbamane

As far as being a butterfly, don't listen to Tho; 93 - first, he's being overly modest; second, the girls at Livingstones luv butterflies, especially those that carry a lot of green :D

LOL, true enough. They love the money, but there is the whole issue of losing face. It is probably more of a problem if you take one girl for a day or two and then take another one. I imagine if you spread the word from day one you were taking a different one every night, that would not be a problem.

Always remember though - Thai girls are among the most jealous women on the face of the earth, even the working girls. As long as you keep it straight business, no problem, but express anything more and even though you are paying, they think they own you.

Traveler1234

01-09-08, 00:58

LOL, true enough. They love the money, but there is the whole issue of losing face. It is probably more of a problem if you take one girl for a day or two and then take another one. I imagine if you spread the word from day one you were taking a different one every night, that would not be a problem.

You're 99% correct, I was merely injecting some humor. Unless you tell them it's purely 'business', one should not jump from girl to girl at L's bar. In fact, I seldom BF from there, usually buy them drinks, help my clients and/or friends find the 'right' gal, and get my own take-out elsewhere.

OT, did you get an email from our favorite escort service in KL....did he raise prices again?

Hope to hook up sometime in 2008.

Beijingrichard

01-09-08, 07:13

I have RTFFed and, other than an influx of Chinese (which I find strange since you're supposed to spend it in your ancestral home) I don't see much about the Lunar New Year. Do Thais observe it and, if so, is there much impact on the mongering?

I spent it in Beijing last year and I'll be damned if I'm doing it again. I was extremely relaxed after two weeks in Thailand and then I couldn't sleep for two weeks due to fireworks 24 hours a day.

Wanderer1000

01-10-08, 04:20

Just spent nine nights at Livingstones over the New Year time.

I entered a report under the Lodge area the night before I left. I got the eight consecutive nights for the price of six plan, and one of the requirements is that you do a post on the Lodge. I originally didn't take this real serious - only thought they wanted to encourage you to post. I was pretty busy, and I was planning on doing my posts after I got back and had some time. To my surprise, when I was looking to settle up my bill the night before I left, Guido asked about my post. He said I needed to post and PM Giotto to get him to okay my discount. I went to the computer and made a post that focused only on the positives (of course, given the circumstances), and then sent a PM to Giotto to check it out.

I had to wait around about fifteen minutes or so afterwards to get Guido to come over for the okay on the discount. I had to call my friend and tell him I would have to move our dinner meeting time a hour later, so I wasn't real happy about that.

I'm posting this because I think newbies or others who have never been there need to be aware of the positive posts under the Lodge section. Although my post was not false, it only focused on positives. If you are looking for a critical analysis of the Lodge, I think it will be hard to find. I certainly felt coerced in my post for a discount that evening, and I think you need to look at the posts in that area with a critical eye.

Freeler

01-10-08, 04:39

BR,

The Thai observe every possible New Year, except Jewish.
They do Western:
Leaving BKK for their homelands upcountry, killing hundreds in the proces. This is right after Christmas, which the Thai observe just to take another holiday:
Leaving BKK for their homelands upcountry, killing hundreds in the proces
They do Chinese:
Leaving BKK for their homelands upcountry, killing hundreds in the proces
And they do Thai (Buddist):
Leaving BKK for their homelands upcountry, killing hundreds in the proces

All this BS starts up to a week in advance and lasts until up to a week afterwards. During this time, travel in the Kingdom is only for the hardy or the stupid.

M P Lurker

01-10-08, 05:06

just spent nine nights at livingstones over the new year time.

i entered a report under the lodge area the night before i left. i got the eight consecutive nights for the price of six plan, and one of the requirements is that you do a post on the lodge. i originally didn't take this real serious - only thought they wanted to encourage you to post. i was pretty busy, and i was planning on doing my posts after i got back and had some time. to my surprise, when i was looking to settle up my bill the night before i left, guido asked about my post. he said i needed to post and pm giotto to get him to okay my discount. i went to the computer and made a post that focused only on the positives (of course, given the circumstances), and then sent a pm to giotto to check it out.

i had to wait around about fifteen minutes or so afterwards to get guido to come over for the okay on the discount. i had to call my friend and tell him i would have to move our dinner meeting time a hour later, so i wasn't real happy about that.

i'm posting this because i think newbies or others who have never been there need to be aware of the positive posts under the lodge section. although my post was not false, it only focused on positives. if you are looking for a critical analysis of the lodge, i think it will be hard to find. i certainly felt coerced in my post for a discount that evening, and i think you need to look at the posts in that area with a critical eye.

mr. peeved,

if you are felling bribed, then there is no reason you must accept the discount. some don't. you could have written a completely honest view of the lodge including negatives. if fact why don't you go back and ammend your post if 24 hours haven't passed, or alternatively put in another review and admit that the previous one was time pressured?

the discount for forum members requires you to make a post. if you didn't do a proper post, why would you expect the discount?
i didn't claim a discount on my recent stay, because i had been too lazy to put in a review at the time also. to busy posting on other things.
so many people are expecting a big discount for doing nothing at all.
too mnay forum members are lazy to post, so unless the posting rule is enforced, they just won't bother. and so defeats the the purpose of having an active thread with lots of reviews about the lodge.t

you are not required to be positive. only honest and hopefully constructive. many guests have pointed out some weaknesses in their view and this helps the lodge improve by attempting to address problems that can be rectified. of course if someone complains that its not a 4 star hotel, its difficult to fix that as depends on what facilities are provided.

no one is being asked to lie about their expereince. the major purpose is really just to show that forum members are continuing to stay at the lodge and to see if they are having fun.
despite this, its true that some reporters may be influenced to ignore some negatives about their stay. it depends on their personality.

the lodge is not a perfect hotel. what hotel is, when employs thai staff, some of whom are reliable and others not? i can't find any hotel in thailand that is perfection and in my price bracket.

SidTheSexist

01-10-08, 06:30

Jak,
I would love to see your honest post about the lodge and Im sure I wouldn't be the only one. Having stayed at the Livingstones and also visited purely for the bar, I am very curious to hear what you find negative about the place!
Sid

Thor93

01-10-08, 06:36

Just spent nine nights at Livingstones over the New Year time.

I'm posting this because I think newbies or others who have never been there need to be aware of the positive posts under the Lodge section. Although my post was not false, it only focused on positives. If you are looking for a critical analysis of the Lodge, I think it will be hard to find. I certainly felt coerced in my post for a discount that evening, and I think you need to look at the posts in that area with a critical eye.

Giotto is a big boy and can take criticisim. As has been said, his place is not perfect and is not for everyone. He can be quite stubborn on some things which you can see by reading through the posts about the Lodge. I think he wants people to be honest in their posts. I know they respond to valid complaints.

I think for a newbie, it is probably one of the best places in Bkk to go to. If you can find Giotto there (remember to only ask for the boss) and appear to be lost in the ways of BKK, he will take the time to talk to you very openly and honestly about what your options might be. Try doing that at any other hotel in Bkk.

The offer of a discount for a post is genuine and I don't think there is any presumption or demand that it be positive. I realize it may be intimidating to write something negative while you are still there and might have to actually face him before you check out, but anyone who plays in this world should be man enough to be able to stand behind their words, positive or negative.

Piper1

01-10-08, 07:00

Here's Jak's original report (reproduced without permission. ;)) Actually sounds pretty accurate from my experiences staying at the Lodge.
My last night at Livingstones Lodge. Had a nice time here, and I'm glad I chose this place for my first stay in Bangkok. As it's been mentioned before, this place is like an oasis. My room was large and comfortable, and the king-sized bed was excellent (important for me since I have problems with my back sometimes). The bathroom was spacious and the shower was large with plenty of hot water when I felt like taking a long shower. I really liked the large safe in the room, and the air conditioner worked so well I had to get up in the middle of the night to turn it down a few times.

The pool area is very comfortable to hang out in, and your free breakfast can be had late in the afternoon if you are a late riser (had mine one day at 4:30PM). There is a computer for free internet use off of the pool area. The staff was always friendly, and Guido is an excellent host and always makes you feel welcome.

Since I was hanging out with a friend who lives here, I didn't use the services of the girls that hang out here. But I was very tempted. Several of them stick in my mind and I would have liked to satisfy my curiosity. But no problem, this is a nice place to stay even if you have another agenda than hanging out here at night. I was busy with visits to Thai families, invitations to parties, and various explorations of Bangkok.

I strongly recommend a stay here, especially if you are new to Bangkok. It's definitely worth checking out.

Thor is spot-on in his post. Couldn't have said it beter myself:

Giotto is a big boy and can take criticisim. As has been said, his place is not perfect and is not for everyone. He can be quite stubborn on some things which you can see by reading through the posts about the Lodge. I think he wants people to be honest in their posts. I know they respond to valid complaints. ...

I realize it may be intimidating to write something negative while you are still there and might have to actually face him before you check out, but anyone who plays in this world should be man enough to be able to stand behind their words, positive or negative.

I always speak highly of the place and recommend it to my friends, because I genuinely enjoy it there on my lay-overs. It's a friendly place with genuine personalized service. However, Jak, remember that it is a business also, not a charity. I'm a great advocate of the Lodge, but I don't expect discounts that I'm not entitled to (and I don't get them :( ).

In my several stays, I haven't had any complaints. One time the receptionist made a mistake on the final bill due to a misunderstanding (it wasn't a big amount). When I pointed it out to Giotto, he checked it out and fixed it. On a layover last year, Giotto proudly showed me my room in the new section of the lodge, which was nice, but I've since pointed out to him I prefer not to have that room again, as I'm a night-owl and a light sleeper (and usually sleep-deprived, jetlagged, shagged and hungover when I stay :)). It turned out that the maids' utility room was near the room, and I was woken by the maids chatting in the morning.

As Thor said, Giotto is a big boy and takes genuine feedback on board and fixes the problems.

Giotto

01-10-08, 10:22

...To my surprise, when I was looking to settle up my bill the night before I left, Guido asked about my post. He said I needed to post and PM Giotto to get him to okay my discount. I went to the computer and made a post that focused only on the positives (of course, given the circumstances), and then sent a PM to Giotto to check it out.

I had to wait around about fifteen minutes or so afterwards to get Guido to come over for the okay on the discount. I had to call my friend and tell him I would have to move our dinner meeting time a hour later, so I wasn't real happy about that.

I'm posting this because I think newbies or others who have never been there need to be aware of the positive posts under the Lodge section. Although my post was not false, it only focused on positives. If you are looking for a critical analysis of the Lodge, I think it will be hard to find. I certainly felt coerced in my post for a discount that evening, and I think you need to look at the posts in that area with a critical eye.Jak,

There are some rules to get the discount, there is a report in the Giotto's Lodge section in which these rules are listed, here the link:

http://www.internationalsexguide.info/forum/showpost.php?p=662806&postcount=14

If you knew about the discount you should have read the rules too, then there were no surprise about writing a report. One of the rules is to write a report, for the main reason to support Jacksons forum. He gave me the opportunity to run the Giotto's Lodge forum within is site, and I want to give something back to him.

This reports do not necessarily need to be posted in the Giotto's Lodge forum, many members post about their adventures in Bangkok, when they stay at the Lodge. And - the reports also don't need to be positive about the Lodge, it is also necessary for us to get reasonable feedbacks that we can work on the issues to increase the quality levels of the Lodge.

I then need a PM for the report, because our hotel computer DOES NOT KNOW that you posted a report, and I cannot check all threads permanently. I somehow then have to connect your handle with your real name and room number to make sure that the discount is entered in your bill.

So if you only wrote a positive report about the Lodge to get the discount I would now like to encourage you to write your real opinion in the Bangkok Hotel thread. That would be helpful for other members to make up their mind during the selection process of a hotel - and if there are negatives it would help us to work on the issues.

Sorry for letting you wait 15 min., and causing a delay for your dinner.

Giotto

Wanderer1000

01-11-08, 01:12

Hi guys,

Thanks for the feedback. Yes, Giotto, your rules are very clear about the discount process. I'll back down on my feelings expressed about the posting situation. I should have taken them more to heart and accepted them in the more strict manner that they are applied.

I still say that the process probably leaves many to be only focused on the positive about their experiences. If I had never visited and I knew the conditions under which many have posted, I would be leery of what to expect.

That said, I really don't have much to say in any negative critical manner. As I said in my post, my comments were all positive and not false. Big safe in the room, top quality king-size bed, etc. My issue is only with the business decision of what is required for posters getting the discount.

I have repeatedly stayed at many places promoted on the board - Aussie Greg's place in Medellin, Kenn and Gringo Management in Rio, and Jackson's apartment this past summer in B.A. I've never gone negative and got into petty bashing. I work in a service business and deal with people all the time. I know there are people that will just have problems no matter what. Actually, in the interest of being fair, I used the services of Gringo Management this summer with the intent of giving an objective posting of my experiences of the service since they are being bashed all the time on the board.

Anyhow, my post was not to convey that I had a bunch of grievances to air - I had a good experience and would consider staying there in the future or recommending it. Yes, no place is perfect, and I roll with little stuff, so I wouldn't even bother to nit-pick. I would just be leery of any business I'm considering using that has a model that has clients posting for the management before getting a discount.

LittleBigMan

01-11-08, 05:07

Jak,

You can't let it go as you posted! You are quoted in your first paragraph " I'll back down on my feelings about posting situation " but yet the remainder of your post suggest otherwise!

" My issue is only with the business decision of what is required for posters getting discount "

"I would just be leery of any business I'm considering using that as a model that has clients posting for the management before getting the discount "

Being in the service industry my whole life before retiring I went beyond the level of service required in my job and took shit because I had to believe that the customer was always right! But the rules are very cleared, you stay 9 days and pay for 6 I believe! at 2500 baht a night I say you got more than a discount Jak!

What really should have matter is whether you had a good time? Instead your harping on and on because you were a little late for lunch or dinner and that wasn't because of Giotto rule. Look in the mirror and you will see the problem buddy! If I had the money to stay at Giotto place. I would have check-in picked up a lady at his bar, snag her left and right and in between go downstairs to do my post and end of story!

LBM

SidTheSexist

01-11-08, 08:29

I was more interested in finding out what wasnt up to scratch at G's place, however, I have inadvertently fell upon this discount he is offering, in the mean time! WOW! 3 nights free? I'd gladly write a post on an internet forum for 7500bht! Thats more than 100quid!!! I cant imagine (well actually, I can:D ) what I'd do in BKK with a saving like that!!
Sid

Dirty Tom

01-11-08, 10:55

Hello friends,

3 questions -

1) Heard the Chinese new year is starting from Feb 7 or sometime around then and the celebrations will go on for 2 weeks... does it impact the prices / quality / quantity of gals available in BKK? Am concerned coz it looks like I may be down there during that period.

2) If using protection, is mongering safe in BKK?

3) Is HCM city (Vietnam) cheaper for mongering or do you get the bang for your buck better in BKK?

Thanks,
-R.

Giotto

01-11-08, 12:15

...
I still say that the process probably leaves many to be only focused on the positive about their experiences. If I had never visited and I knew the conditions under which many have posted, I would be leery of what to expect.
...Jak,

Thanks for your feedback.

It is not the first time that we have this problems with the discount administration rule - I simply don't know how to do that a better way than we try it at the moment.

I still want that guests applying for the discount support this forum, and after having given the discount many times for guests which promosed to "write the report later" (and it never happened) we are today a bit more strict with the rules.

Thanks anyway, for staying at Livingstone's Lodge and your report, I think it was worth the discussion and helps others to write a report early and avoid the problems.

Hope to see you again at the Lodge one day.

Giotto

Wendella

01-11-08, 14:41

3) Is HCM city (Vietnam) cheaper for mongering or do you get the bang for your buck better in BKK?

Not qualified to answer #1 and #2, but can tell you that Thailand (BKK and PTY) is definitely a huge step up from HCMC for what you want. It's possible to find a little available in Saigon for about the same price, but there is nothing even close to the volume or selection available in Thailand. No go-gos, no discos packed with working girls, no massage parlors like those in Thailand, it just doesn't compare at all. Dead, in comparison.

And if you are traveling at Chinese New Year, Vietnam is a tough place to travel to then -- it's Tet holiday, and room rates get raised, as they get fully booked, and it's tough to get seats on planes, trains and buses.

Vinny_Viagra

01-11-08, 17:47

Excellent... good response

You're absolutely correct - they're mostly all ugly. I suggest you stay home, or keep frequenting those other venues you are used to, and leave the ugly Thai ladies for all of the rest of us.

PinkPearl

01-11-08, 17:49

2) If using protection, is mongering safe in BKK?Oh God, yes. Ninety-nine point nine nine percent.

At least better than the SW crack *****s in Canada.

Do you practice DATY, use no condom for BJ?

Dirty Tom

01-11-08, 18:04

Oh God, yes. Ninety-nine point nine nine percent.

At least better than the SW crack *****s in Canada.

Do you practice DATY, use no condom for BJ?

I don't practice DATY
I prefer BBBJCIM [no condom, cum in mouth] (luved that from Viets in Singapore) - is that advised against in BKK?

Bold Focker

01-11-08, 18:46

http://www.iht.com/articles/ap/2008/01/11/asia/AS-GEN-Thailand-No-Smoking.php

Can't wait!

African Guru

01-12-08, 01:25

Not everybody's taste - but anybody who can advise how to find pregnant girls in thailand - dont believe they can be found in bars? Appreciate your input.

M P Lurker

01-12-08, 05:28

Not everybody's taste - but anybody who can advise how to find pregnant girls in thailand - dont believe they can be found in bars? Appreciate your input.

Two nights ago, walking on Sukhumwit Road at about 1.30AM, hanging around approx. Soi 19, was a dark skinned girl with big belly, but looked doable (not ugly in my opinion). Either pregant or fake pregancy gimmick. I nearly stopped to see if she was truelly pregent. But how to test without touching?

Presumably she was looking for a pick up.

PinkPearl

01-12-08, 08:52

Not everybody's taste - but anybody who can advise how to find pregnant girls in thailand - dont believe they can be found in bars? Appreciate your input.If Opebo is around or any other barebackers brave enough to post info, they can probably advise. I think he haunts Chinatown when he's in BKK,
so that would be a good place to start.

PinkPearl

01-12-08, 09:09

I don't practice DATY. I prefer BBBJCIM [no condom, cum in mouth] (luved that from Viets in Singapore) - is that advised against in BKK?

I don't personally practice this or know if ladies here are willing to let you do it, although had one offer CIM. Maybe check out the HIV STD thread. I've recieved many BBBJs from crack *****s and was lucky to never get a disease. If anything I think LOS would be safer, so you are probably ok, but not 100%.

Hoboken Michael

01-13-08, 06:02

as a "virgin" traveler to your country, i am wondering how many of you have passed through customs into thailand with medicines - heart/mental health (anti-depressants)/legal patches/liquid supplements (fish oils, etc.) when the customs department of thailand appears to be so strict on this issue.

in particular, several key bulleted points on the offical website for thai customs state that:

• dangerous drugs and psychotropic substances such as opium heroin, cannabis, lsd, ketamine, ecstasy, and etc;

• prosecution and confirep001ion of the prohibited/controlled items if they fail to produce a valid licence for the goods.

• plants and animals;

• medicines and chemical products;

so hypothetically, if i am carrying exactly all of the following: klonopin (anti-seizure med), valerian root (tranquilizer pills for sleeping), prozac, imodium, benadryl and no license/prescriptions for any of what i am carrying, what risk do i have at thai customs before exiting the airport and what exactly needs to be noted or not noted on the customs form that is handed to me earlier?

thanks,

michael

Dirty Tom

01-13-08, 10:24

Friends,

I wanted to know where to find the best looking / best servicing gals in BKK, someone suggested Monet & The Office (or something like that)...let me know if you have more options.

Could someone give me a decent estimate on the latest price trend, I do not want to sound stupid trying to bargain at a very low rate nor a bigger stupid - agreeing to something ridiculously high! This being my first time to BKK - I want to be thoroughly prepared. Please tell me bar fine / ST / LT rates.

Thanks,
-R.

Member #3428

01-13-08, 11:06

I wanted to know where to find the best looking / best servicing gals in BKK, someone suggested Monet & The Office (or something like that)...let me know if you have more options.

Could someone give me a decent estimate on the latest price trend, I do not want to sound stupid trying to bargain at a very low rate nor a bigger stupid - agreeing to something ridiculously high! This being my first time to BKK - I want to be thoroughly prepared. Please tell me bar fine / ST / LT rates.

Thanks,
-R.

Monet and Office are just two of the many bars on Soi 33. They are not the best. Price does not give you best looking or best service. I will agree Monet and Office are two of the better places on Soi 33 IN MY OPINION ONLY, but there are some good places on 33 including Livingstones Green Parrot and others. Some you better watch your bill and your total and your change.

Bar fines ranged from 1,000 to 1,500 baht last I checked and girls ranged from 3,000 to 10,000 baht for Long Time, yeah 10,000 baht if you can imagine that. In GENERAL I have to tell you that girls on 33 will want 4,000 to 5,000 on average for LT. But you better clear it up ahead of time before you leave. For the most part, they have a set basic structure and won't try to rip you off. Not cheap for sure. Some girls, late at night or who are desperate you can try to pull for less. Drinks are averaged priced I find as cowboy and other places seem to have raised their drink prices.

Do not equate price with BEST. You can find what you want other places and for much lower if you like. However personally I am more of a fan of 33 as it is more laid back, not as crowded, not as pushy, etc.... But you can get a 1,000 to 2,000 baht girl from Gullivers who is great looking and of great quality. Depends what you want and where you are comfortable.

Traveler1234

01-13-08, 15:37

Friends,

I wanted to know where to find the best looking / best servicing gals in BKK, someone suggested Monet & The Office (or something like that)...let me know if you have more options.

Could someone give me a decent estimate on the latest price trend, I do not want to sound stupid trying to bargain at a very low rate nor a bigger stupid - agreeing to something ridiculously high! This being my first time to BKK - I want to be thoroughly prepared.

-R.

I think it's time to RTFF ....you've been on this thread long enough now to learn how to read the previous FAQ post as well as the Report of Distinction.

Dirty Tom

01-13-08, 22:58

Thanks maite, that would help :).

Monet and Office are just two of the many bars on Soi 33. They are not the best. Price does not give you best looking or best service. I will agree Monet and Office are two of the better places on Soi 33 IN MY OPINION ONLY, but there are some good places on 33 including Livingstones Green Parrot and others. Some you better watch your bill and your total and your change.

Bar fines ranged from 1,000 to 1,500 baht last I checked and girls ranged from 3,000 to 10,000 baht for Long Time, yeah 10,000 baht if you can imagine that. In GENERAL I have to tell you that girls on 33 will want 4,000 to 5,000 on average for LT. But you better clear it up ahead of time before you leave. For the most part, they have a set basic structure and won't try to rip you off. Not cheap for sure. Some girls, late at night or who are desperate you can try to pull for less. Drinks are averaged priced I find as cowboy and other places seem to have raised their drink prices.

Do not equate price with BEST. You can find what you want other places and for much lower if you like. However personally I am more of a fan of 33 as it is more laid back, not as crowded, not as pushy, etc.... But you can get a 1,000 to 2,000 baht girl from Gullivers who is great looking and of great quality. Depends what you want and where you are comfortable.

Dirty Tom

01-13-08, 22:59

I agree, but its possible that things may have changed recently - so was looking for some latest info from those who may have been there recently... and it doesn't hurt to ask for more participation... :)

I think it's time to RTFF ....you've been on this thread long enough now to learn how to read the previous FAQ post as well as the Report of Distinction.

Retired Army

01-14-08, 01:47

Retired Army

01-14-08, 01:52

Traveler1234

01-14-08, 03:44

I agree, but its possible that things may have changed recently - so was looking for some latest info from those who may have been there recently... and it doesn't hurt to ask for more participation... :)

Define recently...mine is 'being lazy'
Define participation....mine is 'ignore list'

:(

Easy2007

01-14-08, 04:19

But you can get a 1,000 to 2,000 baht girl from Gullivers who is great looking and of great quality. Depends what you want and where you are comfortable.I think its important to reconfirm here that the girls work multiple bars. Some girls work two, some three or four bars, and so therefore don't think by picking up in one place she's only from there, or indeed limit your choices.

Some girls work Gullivers Soi 5 and Beer Garden Soi 7 (you'll see them alternate between the two, couple of hours in one, and if not luck then move to the other for a couple of hours, then back again etc..)

Some girls work Gullivers Soi 5, Beer Garden Soi 7, Absolute Soi 7/1.

Some girls work Gullivers Soi 5, Beer Garden Soi 7, Thermae.

And so on and so forth with a few other freelancer places thrown in. Very few girls work exclusively in one place, they may do this for a month or so, and then be exclusive in a different bar for a month or so.

I often hear people say the girls in "x" bar are better than "y" bar.......but at the end of the day the freelancers are generally not exclusive, and will work a lot of different bars. Different bars have different clients, and thats the important thing for a freelancer, exposure to potential customers.

Dirty Tom

01-14-08, 10:55

My bad buddy... I did not intend what you interpreted... but my impression after reading through about 20+ pages was that this thread discusses a lot of interesting things other than just the BF/ST/LT prices... which is awesome! I am not complaining at all.

Don't get me wrong that I did not want to RTFF - just that the estimates I got did not make me feel comfortable enough mentally about the prices.

Don't be mad at me - we are all a community and have to learn from each others' experiences ... so peace! I need all the help and advice from experienced folks like yourself... and thanks for being around - it certainly helps :)

Take care and have fun,
-Rakesh.

Define recently...mine is 'being lazy'
Define participation....mine is 'ignore list'

:(

Member #3428

01-14-08, 12:09

I think its important to reconfirm here that the girls work multiple bars.

Goes without saying, just like we hit a few places so do the FL. I've seen many the same ladies all over Nana area from soi 3 to soi 8 this past week and a half. Not just one place, if an area is dead they move on, just like we do. There were some absolutely stunners on the walk from Soi 4 to Soi 8 today.

Duniawala

01-14-08, 18:15

My bad buddy... I did not intend what you interpreted... but my impression after reading through about 20+ pages was that this thread discusses a lot of interesting things other than just the BF/ST/LT prices... which is awesome! I am not complaining at all.

Don't get me wrong that I did not want to RTFF - just that the estimates I got did not make me feel comfortable enough mentally about the prices.

Don't be mad at me - we are all a community and have to learn from each others' experiences ... so peace! I need all the help and advice from experienced folks like yourself... and thanks for being around - it certainly helps :)

Take care and have fun,
-Rakesh.
If you read 20+ pages from all the threads you would have a very, very good idea about all the prices and things to do and places to visit.

Come back with specific questions and we will help you.

So RTFF.

Dirty Tom

01-15-08, 08:33

I agree, I have read only the 20 pages or so from one of the Thailand threads... need to do it in all of them, thanks!

If you read 20+ pages from all the threads you would have a very, very good idea about all the prices and things to do and places to visit.

Come back with specific questions and we will help you.

So RTFF.

Hoboken Michael

01-19-08, 05:50

Do any of you have reports/stories to offer of bringing "furry handcuffs" from your local sex shop while on your vacation to Thailand. I have a pair of furry cuffs that are tempting to bring in Feb. And have used them on a gal who I recently had an affair with in NYC who loved to wear them while being picked up and screwed hard. Cowgirl. Against a mirror. This took place in a NYC short-time hotel. Expensive at $60 per hour when I had visited and she got a real kick the couple of times that we broke the mirror and there may have been consequences.

Luckily, I had signed my name "Mickey Mouse" at the front desk upon registration and could not be tracked once having left the hotel. And when we went back to the hotel, we had different front desk clerks most of the time.

Any stories? Lucky for me, she loved the "M" in "S&M"!

Tiger 888

01-19-08, 18:11

I just found that Superrich in Bangkok who give by far the best exchange rates have them online.
Here is the link. You need to register (its free) to see them.

http://www.superrich1965.com/node/40

Attached: an example Ratesheet for Jamuary 19, 2008. Just compare it with Bangkok Bank.

Member #2041

01-19-08, 18:59

Tiger 888

01-19-08, 20:00

Nope Tiger, in person, both places are buying a $100 USD bill for 3285 baht. Exactly the same rate.

My experience is that, absent a clerical error, i.e. one place has yet to update their daily rate sheet, and the other has, that the best and the worst banks in Bangkok won't vary by more than around 5 baht (~15 cents) per $100 USD.

I did once stumble across a branch of a bank with a day-old rate sheet posted that didn't comprehend an overnight 0.36% drop in the dollar, so that morning, I changed $500 there. Another branch of the same bank 3 blocks away had the correct (12 baht/$100 USD lower) rate.It's not the buying rate I talk about. It's the spread. I manged to buy USD (20 bills) from Superrich at a rate 10 Satang less than their selling rate of 100s. Now go and compare that with any money changer. The rate BKK Bank publishes at 32.85 is for wires not cash.

Frannie

01-20-08, 03:32

Tiger 888

01-20-08, 03:50

..."Thailand has legal prostitution...Who said that? not only is prostitutin illegal in Thailand, neither does it happen. Read the Thai newspapers, they will proof. Even barfines have nothing to do with Sex and Bars are no brothels!!!! Ask Giotto when in doubt.

Horatio

01-20-08, 04:08

Never been to Thailand, but I have a question about something I was reading elsewhere:

"Thailand has legal prostitution yet many Thai prostitutes were trafficked from Burma or Cambodia and live squalorous lives like animals--many contract aids, they are not permitted to say no to men who don't want to wear condoms--they suffer even under legalized prostitution."

To what extent is this true, or does this pertain only to certain segments of the market like brothels that cater to Thai men, or is it general.

Please don't reply and say this is not true unless you have fairly detailed knowledge of Thai society that goes beyond the tourist experience.

You repeat a scurrilous accusation from some unnamed news source and then say not to rebut it except from fairly detailed knowledge. I would suggest you should not repeat the accusation unless you have fairly detailed knowledge that it is true.

Nothing I have read supports your assertion, except obvious propaganda from anti-prostitution groups. That being said I don't know.

Horatio

Frannie

01-20-08, 04:12

Who said that? not only is prostitutin illegal in Thailand, neither does it happen. Read the Thai newspapers, they will proof. Even barfines have nothing to do with Sex and Bars are no brothels!!!! Ask Giotto when in doubt.

Yes, technically prostitution has been illegal in Thailand since 1960, but the prohibition is not enforced, and the "Prevention and Suppression of Prostitution Act of 1996" which outlaws the hiring of prostitutes under the age of 18, seems to tacitly admit that hiring prostitutes over the age of 18 is more kosher. In any case both laws seem to have been enacted because of foreign pressures rather than any internal desire to enforce them. It is widely known that a large proportion of Thailand's tourism industry is sex tourism related, even if Thai authorities prefer not to publicly acknowledge such.

Frannie

01-20-08, 04:18

You repeat a scurrilous accusation from some unnamed news source and then say not to rebut it except from fairly detailed knowledge. I would suggest you should not repeat the accusation unless you have fairly detailed knowledge that it is true.

Nothing I have read supports your assertion, except obvious propaganda from anti-prostitution groups. That being said I don't know.

Horatio

No it is not an official news source, and I feel that it is almost certainly inaccurate, so I am looking for first hand information that would help to rebut it, or at least help me to understand better where this idea might come from.

For example, I know that the official position in Thailand is that condoms must be used at all times in all brothels, on pain of closure, but has anyone first hand experience of being told that they must use a condom? Or first hand experience of being offered sex without a condom?

Old Thai Hand

01-20-08, 04:35

Thailand has legal prostitution.

Not true. Prostitution was outlawed around 1960. Yet, of course it persists, like it does in the US, Canada and any number of other countries where it is also illegal.

many Thai prostitutes were trafficked from Burma or Cambodia and live squalorous lives like animals--many contract aids, they are not permitted to say no to men who don't want to wear condoms--they suffer even under legalized prostitution. To what extent is this true, or does this pertain only to certain segments of the market like brothels that cater to Thai men, or is it general.

Again, this is mostly not true. While there are Burmese and Cambodia prosititutes along the Thai border, mostly in truck-stop brothels, catering to Thai men, and while certainly most would prefer not to be there, few have been trafficked there in the strictest sense (i.e. abducted), but were probably brought in illegally. The "squalorous" situation you describe was quite prevalent 20 years ago in some areas along the border. But, even then it was as not pervasive or widespread as your quote supposes and has improved extensively in recent years. These type of places represented a very small percentage of prostitution in Thailand. If you read this board it becomes obvious that the prostitution business is mostly above-board, and quite sophisticated. The vast majority of mainly Thais women (not Burmese and Cambodia, as you suppose) are in it by choice. While the use of condoms is apparently rather slapdash in the Thai border brothels, I would say that, women are not forced to have unprotected sex, except by the pressures of economics (i.e. they get more money if they go bareback) and by their own ignorance. There has been a huge public education and AIDS awareness program in Thailand over the last 10 years and while still a problem, especially in rural areas, AIDS has been checked and is slowly declining.

Please don't reply and say this is not true unless you have fairly detailed knowledge of Thai society that goes beyond the tourist experience.

I've lived here 11 years. A university colleague of mine did a very in-depth research project on every aspect of prostitution in Thailand, from street hookers trolling around Sanam Luang and under Pinklao Bridge in BKK to Farang-oriented GoGos to truck-stop brothels in the north. Besides my personal experience of P4P and what I have heard and read over the years, my knowledge of the business comes from him.

Addendum:
I am curious as to why you are asking these questions? Your posts have the faint undercurrent of some pious, Christian-right do-gooder operating on incredibly spurious information.

Frannie

01-20-08, 04:44

Not true. Prostitution was outlawed around 1960. Yet, of course it persists, like it does in the US, Canada and any number of other countries where it is also illegal.

Again, this is mostly not true.

Thanks, very helpful.

Opebo

01-20-08, 17:55

I really hate to contribute to chatting with what appears to be a female religious, but I do have to comment:

For example, I know that the official position in Thailand is that condoms must be used at all times in all brothels, on pain of closure, but has anyone first hand experience of being told that they must use a condom? Or first hand experience of being offered sex without a condom?

I have had innumerable and quite discouraging experiences of being told that I must use a condom. In some cases I can persaude the provider otherwise, but more often than not, in brothels, I simply lose my pre-payment and have to go home completely unrequited.

As for being 'offered sex without a condom', this is very rare in a brothel. Sometimes if you just go with the flow you luck out and it just happens that way, but usually condomless sex has to be had through begging, pleading, persuasion, and tipping (often quite heavy).

I include these comments more for the general information of fellow mongers than to banter with this religious.

Tulip777

01-20-08, 22:50

Meepmeep99

01-21-08, 01:30

PinkPearl

01-22-08, 12:55

Not true. Prostitution was outlawed around 1960. Yet, of course it persists, like it does in the US, Canada and any number of other countries where it is also illegal.Prostitution is legal in Canada.

"This is a little known fact that most Canadian's don't know."

http://mer b.ca/vbulletin/archive/index.php/t-534.html

"Prostitution is legal in all of Canada it has been part of the Federal Criminal Code since at least mid 1800s. It is similar to British law and laws in much of Europe."

http://www.sexwork.com/montreal/law.html

http://www.sexwork.com/coalition/whatcountrieslegal.html

"As a matter of fact, prostitution is not illegal, and you cannot be charged for 'prostitution.'

"However 'soliciting' is illegal which as such creates a chicken or the egg situation since in order to do acts of prostitution you have to 'solicit' it first. But the actual act of prostitution is as legal as crossing the street on a green light in the sense that you cannot be charged for it." {my comment added in brackets}

http://www.funtrivia.com/askft/Question13460.html

PinkPearl

01-22-08, 13:57

If you are going to walk on Sukhumvit, I'd suggest the NEP Nana Hotel side of the street. The pedestrians on either side are all idiots, but on the wrong side, with its constricted space, they resemble the Zombies in The Night of the Living Dead. Then there are the motobike drivers on the sidewalk, but that's another story. Just remember to be on 100% alert at all times in every direction. I have had several near death experiences already when I got distracted looking at bare legs, red heads, and small round bums with tight clothing over them.

Dirty Tom

01-24-08, 11:06

PinkPearl

01-24-08, 16:41

Hello folks,

I will be going to BKK and will certainly sample Thai pussy... but has anyone had luck with Arabic and/or Russian babes?

Where do I sample those in BKK? Any tips?
Any idea how good or bad they are in the service they provide?

Thanks,

-R.I think you can forget about Arabic, unless you want to randomly approach any couple on the street and offer the guy a price on his wife, of whom the only body part you may be able to see is her eyeballs. Be prepared, however, for an immediate Jihad vs yourself by a fanatical mob. On the other hand these guys have a rep among the TGs as cheap charlies, so maybe he'd go for it. And since he's likely the boss, that's the only opinion that counts.

As for USSR girls, they are connected with the Russian mafia in LOS, and charge ridiculous prices, but I believe you can find some HIV infected ones around the Grace Hotel. Good luck with that.

If you decide to take one for the team, and live through it, let us know how it goes.

Daddy San

01-24-08, 20:11

Rbamane and I are probably committing a stoneable offence by asking about non-Thai pussy on this forum, but how about Indian and Iranian(Persian) ladies.
Any venue where those congregate?

Tulip777

01-25-08, 04:07

I think you can forget about Arabic, unless you want to randomly approach any couple on the street and offer the guy a price on his wife, of whom the only body part you may be able to see is her eyeballs. Be prepared, however, for an immediate Jihad vs yourself by a fanatical mob. On the other hand these guys have a rep among the TGs as cheap charlies, so maybe he'd go for it. And since he's likely the boss, that's the only opinion that counts.

As for USSR girls, they are connected with the Russian mafia in LOS, and charge ridiculous prices, but I believe you can find some HIV infected ones around the Grace Hotel. Good luck with that.

If you decide to take one for the team, and live through it, let us know how it goes.

You can find Russians (from different former republics) in CM2 for around 5000B, maybe even less, as it gets late, which is still ridiculous - I didn't see any great beauties in there. The ones around Grace Hotel or Bamboo, across the street, do look like they're on the last leg of life's journey. As for arab women, cracking the sidewalks of Bangkok, wouldn't mind sticking my tool in that narrow opening in their long black dress, just for the kink of it, but I don't feel like getting hurt in the Mecca-like stampede.

NicFrenchy

01-25-08, 05:05

Rbamane,

You must have Alzheimer's or short term memory loss mate!

You asked that same question a week or so ago.

Dirty Tom

01-25-08, 09:37

Not sure who has Alzheimer's... me or you - find me that earlier post where I asked about Arabic ladies - bet you cannot find it in this lifetime!

Guess, you should pay some more attention while RTFFing the thread... :)

Good luck!

Rbamane,

You must have Alzheimer's or short term memory loss mate!

You asked that same question a week or so ago.

Dirty Tom

01-25-08, 09:40

NicFrenchy

01-25-08, 17:35

I presumed that BKK is cosmopolitan enough to have pussies from different corners of the world... but from the responses it doesn't look like...

I guess Macau is the place to be for international pussies... BKK doesn't shine there... so to all those who were hurt by my query about non-Thai pussies - I beg your pardon(s) and will enjoy Thai and only Thai pussies while in BKK.

I rest my case in peace here.

-R.The only case you can rest here is the fact that you can't use the Search function. BKK has Plenty of Non-Thai Pussies available: Russian, Uzbeks, Nigerian, Indian and more.

I could tell you where to find them, but I just dont want to.

Member #2041

01-25-08, 19:17

I presumed that BKK is cosmopolitan enough to have pussies from different corners of the world... but from the responses it doesn't look like...
-R.

It's not that there are no choices from other countries and cultures. It's just that they are nowhere near as good as the Thais - in terms of attitude relative to what you'll need to pay.

Dirty Tom

01-26-08, 10:27

Hello bro,

I presume you are passing on a suggestion to me in an unusual manner - but I already tried using the Search function (having been a designer of Search functions myself, I try that the first everywhere) - but could not find anything worthwhile on those non-Thai pussies, ex. for some mentions to Grace hotel.

Nothing personal against you mate, just want to find out what my options are... and hence diggin'

Chill!

The only case you can rest here is the fact that you can't use the Search function. BKK has Plenty of Non-Thai Pussies available: Russian, Uzbeks, Nigerian, Indian and more.

I could tell you where to find them, but I just dont want to.

Dirty Tom

01-26-08, 11:12

Has anyone ever gotten a hot tea treatment in BKK? (The lady fills her mouth with hot tea while giving a BJ)

Please do not ask me to RTFF because there is no info about it in the thread - and hence posing the question here.

Traveler1234

01-26-08, 14:05

The only case you can rest here is the fact that you can't use the Search function. BKK has Plenty of Non-Thai Pussies available: Russian, Uzbeks, Nigerian, Indian and more.

I could tell you where to find them, but I just dont want to.

Nic - this guy is a total loser. Just put him on your ignore list.

Duniawala

01-26-08, 19:50

Can anyone recommend which places have the best sex shows in BKK. Strange as it may sound I have never been to one. A friend of mine coming to BKK for the first time asked me and I had no answer. Many thanks.

Duni

Satrai2000

01-26-08, 20:07

I presumed that BKK is cosmopolitan enough to have pussies from different corners of the world... but from the responses it doesn't look like...

I guess Macau is the place to be for international pussies... BKK doesn't shine there... so to all those who were hurt by my query about non-Thai pussies - I beg your pardon(s) and will enjoy Thai and only Thai pussies while in BKK.

I rest my case in peace here.

-R.Hi,

In and around the Grace Hotel in Sukh. soi 3 you can find Russian, Uzbeki and Thai ladies. I don't know about Arab ladies but I have seen some girls in the Grace who seem very Arab to me. I haven't seen any Indian ladies.

There are some real stunners out there. Just have a look there yourself.

(b.t.w.: Singapore is also a good place for international p.ss.)

Giotto

01-26-08, 21:29

Can anyone recommend which places have the best sex shows in BKK. ...
Sir,

Nana: Angel Witch.
Cowboy: Long Gun, Suzy Wong
Patpong: Socalled Ping-Pong shows, in various places, ripp-off.
(THIS IS A JOKE): Soi 33, Livingstones: Room No. xxx (the Vice President stays there :) ).

Giotto

Giotto

01-26-08, 21:36

...
Please do not ask me to RTFF because there is no info about it in the thread - and hence posing the question here.Rbamane,

Besides asking questions - 69 reports - just give us a short overview about your CONTRIBUTIONS to the forum.

Please.

Giotto

Traveler1234

01-26-08, 21:36

Sir,

Nana: Angel Witch.
Cowboy: Long Gun, Suzy Wong
Patpong: Socalled Ping-Pong shows, in various places, ripp-off.
(THIS IS A JOKE:) Soi 33, Livingstones: Room No. xxx (the Vice President stays there :) ).

Giotto

Sir Duni:
Since you've never visited, I suggest we change our meeting place from Sports Bar to Long Gun or Suzy Won :)

Giotto

01-26-08, 21:42

Sir Duni:
Since you've never visited, I suggest we change our meeting place from Sports Bar to Long Gun or Suzy Won :)Mr. Marketing Director,

Besides the fact that this is not the right forum for this discussion - is it your understanding about MARKETING and creating PROFITS for the Lodge :) to arrange meetings at other places :) ?

BESTARD!!!

Giotto

Duniawala

01-26-08, 23:27

Sir Duni:
Since you've never visited, I suggest we change our meeting place from Sports Bar to Long Gun or Suzy Won :)
Sounds good to me. But let's see the shows in the Lodge first. The VP's room, is it? :) Dr. G is buying the first round I heard.

Montecristo

01-27-08, 05:11

Recently i read that USA considered that Tailand was no longer in their blacklist of piracy.
They considered street selling was no longer a problem.

Does this mean, than in Sukhumvit and near Patpong, street vendors of DVD's disappeared ?

Thanks in advance

Monte Cristo

Run Mann

01-27-08, 05:23

Retired Army

01-27-08, 08:00

Dirty Tom

01-27-08, 10:42

Daddy07

01-27-08, 10:50

... Guido - do you think you will gimme a room at LL?
Thanks, -R.

I'm sure he will, and while you are at it, be sure to ask him about the special discount for which essentially all you have to do is stay a small number of days and then make a CONTRIBUTION to this forum. :)

AsiaTraveler2

01-28-08, 01:09

My friend,

People luv calling others as losers and question them for contributions - look for my reports in Mumbai (Bombay) and Singapore threads if you want to check my contributions - and yeah - this aint a classroom for me to prove something or get grades... I have as much right to ask questions here as you do to read the posts... !

Since this is my first time in BKK - all I am doing is asking questions to make the most of my time there, which I feel is very appropriate to do.

All you seniors and knowledgeable folks out there are living under the assumption that everyone is as experienced as you - but thats not the case! If someone is being as specific as possible and asking something that is not popularly discussed in the thread - it doesn't mean you call him a loser! You may not be interested in the same thing - but respect others' interests.
<cut>
Thanks,
-R.

Rbamane,

Not sure why this happens so often, and the BKK thread is not alone. Why Veteran members feel the need to ridicule or harass innocent questions, seems to be rude and arrogant to me. The type of bullying most of us have out grown after grade school (or highschool for some).

I think they forgot how it was when they first started, or have not been to any new mongering destinations lately and have not had the same flaming treatment lately on other threads, or maybe they just forget that newbies are new customers of Jackson's site and they just want to hurt his business. Duh! Just my thoughts. I believe if they remember that you are in Jackson's house as his guest, then maybe the treatment will improve a bit.

Just to let you know, this question has been raised before and has always been met with the same response. There have been a few answers that might help you and the other poster. Click on the search and enter "Russian" as the key word. Getting too specific will not get you the desired results. Be sure to select "Thailand" in the "Search in Forum(s)" box. Finally, be sure to check the "Reports" option in the "Show Results as" option in the lower left hand corner of the screen.

You should end up with about 100 prior postings, including the most recent flamming postings. There were some good answers previously, that might help you. Sorry I can't answer your question directly, since CM2 is the only place I can think of off hand. I don't look for non-Thai's in Thailand, but I can understand why others might. Good luck with your search.

AT2

Traveler1234

01-28-08, 01:32

Rbamane,

Not sure why this happens so often, and the BKK thread is not alone. Why Veteran members feel the need to ridicule or harass innocent questions, seems to be rude and arrogant to me. The type of bullying most of us have out grown after grade school (or highschool for some).

Just to let you know, this question has been raised before and has always been met with the same respoGood luck with your search.

AT2

When he asked his first question, we answered, when he asked his 2nd, 3rd, we also answered. When he starting asking his 10th question without reading the fucking forum, I put him on my ignore list. When he asked his 15th question, I did a quick read of his other posts, and then called him a loser.

Nicfrenchy is a nice guy and never flames anyone - even he lost patience and asked if the guy had alzhemier's?
Even Giotto got on the band wagon, he's certainly not a bully but rather a pimp :D

He is a loser - maybe I'm an asshole or boring or arrogant or even worse, but I certainly am not a bully ;)

Terry Terrier

01-28-08, 01:40

When he asked his first question, we answered, when he asked his 2nd, 3rd, we also answered. When he starting asking his 15th question without reading the fucking forum, I put him on my ignore list. When he asked his 20th question, I did a quick read of his other posts, and then called him a loser.

He is a loser - maybe I'm an asshole or boring or arrogant or even worse, but I certainly am not a bully ;)

Errr.....so you did a quick read of his other posts while you had him on ignore?

AsiaTraveler2

01-28-08, 02:25

When he asked his first question, we answered, when he asked his 2nd, 3rd, we also answered. When he starting asking his 10th question without reading the fucking forum, I put him on my ignore list. When he asked his 15th question, I did a quick read of his other posts, and then called him a loser.

Nicfrenchy is a nice guy and never flames anyone - even he lost patience and asked if the guy had alzhemier's?
Even Giotto got on the band wagon, he's certainly not a bully but rather a pimp :D

He is a loser - maybe I'm an asshole or boring or arrogant or even worse, but I certainly am not a bully ;)

Traveler1234,

I agree, he's asked a lot of questions. Some, very naive, like Condoms. He could be 20 years old and green. I don't recall him asking the same question twice. Just 20 or so different questions. Yeah, it might be a bit annoying, like a puppy dog trailing your every move. I still think it's his right to ask and for us to answer or ignore.

I do think he needs to better understand the search funtion. It works fine, if you just don't get too specific. Lack of effort on his part? Yeah, probably. But loser? Just green to me. Many years ago, I had a friend in the same situation. Adventuresome guy, surfs, great with the woman, but when it came time for international travel, he balked. He asked a 100 questions and it took months to convince him. Once he got over the initial fear of the unknown, he's been out traveling me to Bangkok and the Phillipines. LOL!

Rbamane,

Things have not changed much over the past 2 years. Find any post that's no more than 2 years old and you can use it as a guide. See the other Bangkok threads. A lot of your answers are also in the Bangkok reports, Massage Parlor Reports and the Hotel Reports. Do a google search of Bangkok Models, Bangkok Massage, Bangkok Bar Girls and there are more than enough pics to give you an idea of what's in store for you. Do NOT use the Bangkok Photo Gallery in the Bangkok thread as a guide. There are too many posters throwing up pics just to scare people, I think.

Re-phrasing your questions might show you did some work. For example, I understand that the ST rates are about 1,000 to 2,000 baht. Is this still true? Just a starting point. Type in ST/LT or ST or ST rate and do a search. Lot's of info there. Reading the thread (at least 30 to 40 pages in each of the 3 main threads) will be worth your time. You will get your answers and alot of info you did not even think about.

Do you know about the Sky Train and the Subway? Do you know the key stops? Do you know where to exchange your money? Do you know the best way to get from the airport? Do you know about the traffic grid lock that BKK is famous for? Do you know where the best places to eat? etc., etc., etc. It does sound like you have traveled internationally, so it won't be very different if you have.

One last thought. Read the reports of distinction thread. Some fluff, but lot's of good stuff too.

Peace,
AT2

Giotto

01-28-08, 05:08

...
... question them for contributions ...

All you seniors and knowledgeable folks out there are living under the assumption that everyone is as experienced as you - but thats not the case!
...
Guido - do you think you will gimme a room at LL?
Rbamane,

With all due respect, I was quite serious with my question.

It is possible to take the time to read the forums, and to use the search function. Many questions are then answered. And it is also not good for the quality of a forum if the same questions are repeated again and again, and the same responds added - makes the forum boring on the longer term.

Guido, who is Guido? Anyway, of course you can get a room at LL, and we will also answer your questions when you are here...don't worry :) . Here we can do that for each single customer without getting others bored.

Peace!

Giotto

Giotto

01-28-08, 05:31

Has anyone ever gotten a hot tea treatment in BKK? (The lady fills her mouth with hot tea while giving a BJ)
...
AsiaTraveler2,

Point taken, trying to finish grade school :) ...

Hot tea / iced water treatment: Not easy to get that here in Bangkok. I knew one provider (met by chance) who was specialized in this kind of service, but she retired (with a Singaporean boyfriend).

What I would do is to talk to the papa/mamasans of Darling, Annies, Tulip or even Eden, and I am quite sure they know a few girls in their establishment who provide that service.

Giotto

AsiaTraveler2

01-28-08, 05:57

Rbamane,

With all due respect, I was quite serious with my question.

It is possible to take the time to read the forums, and to use the search function. Many questions are then answered. And it is also not good for the quality of a forum if the same questions are repeated again and again, and the same responds added - makes the forum boring on the longer term.

Guido, who is Guido? Anyway, of course you can get a room at LL, and we will also answer your questions when you are here...don't worry :) . Here we can do that for each single customer without getting others bored.

Peace!

Giotto

Rbamane,

I would highly suggest that you do stay at Livingstones. Great for everyone, but especially for a newbie. Girl friendly, Girls on site!, Soi 33 bars and massage places, close to the BTS and easy to get to Soi Cowboy or Nana Plaza from there. Good bar and food on premises, nice rooms, etc. Link provided below. There are also many experts on premises (management and customers) that may steer you in the right direction. Akane Massage is also on that Soi (street).

Also go to Asoke Station to catch the MRT Subway to Hwai Kuang Station and try out one of the Soapy Massage places (Nataree, Casaers, Emmanuelle) or taxi from that station to Utopia. The stop after Hwai Kuang is Suthisan and has the well know Poseidon complex near by.

http://www.livingstones.co.th/

Take the suggestions to heart. While it is a forum to exchange ideas and knowledge, you also need to be sure that you are not expecting others to do all of the work for you.

Have fun,
AT2

NicFrenchy

01-28-08, 06:10

And it is also not good for the quality of a forum if the same questions are repeated again and again, and the same responds added - makes the forum boring on the longer term.Maybe something to consider: a Thread called NEWBIES QUESTIONS? that way, we would go in there ready to answer the same questions and not clog the regular Bkk Threads?

Dirty Tom

01-28-08, 06:44

Thanks AsiaTraveler2, Giotto and others for understanding my PoV and the explanation on Search feature... looks like I was missing something there - was being more specific than what works!

I do wish to say that I have not asked 15 questions about BKK on this forum, whoever feels that way isn't perhaps doing a good "quick read" of my posts.

AT2, I do travel internationally but not very frequent - just about a couple times a year... and since BKK is the first time, I sure don't know about things that you have listed - like the train stops, places to eat, money exchange places, etc. I am reading through the pages these days from other BKK threads also to get a good idea of those things - it comforts to know that things haven't changed much in 2 years... from the place I come - it changes every 2 days - hence my suspicion on the validity of the posts (which I mention about in my first question-post).

Just as an aside, I have always gotten the best exchange rate while using my ATM card at the ATM machines rather than those manned booths - they give their "selling rate" for the local currency which is worse than the bank-to-bank rate for the local currency that you get when using the ATM. You can try this in any country where you land - I have tried it with UK Pound, Singapore $, Canadian $, New Taiwan $, etc.

Giotto - I will make the booking for my room very soon, stay tuned to hear back from me.

Meanwhile, PEACE with everyone around - I should get busy with my RTFFing.

Thanks buddys!
-Rocky.

Giotto

01-28-08, 07:01

Maybe something to consider: a Thread called NEWBIES QUESTIONS? that way, we would go in there ready to answer the same questions and not clog the regular Bkk Threads?NicFrenchy,

I created a thread for that some months ago, after we had another RTFF escalation in the Thailand forum. In that thread I answer questions from Bangkok rookies even if they were answered here in the forum before.

Thread: Rookies questions about Bangkok

http://www.internationalsexguide.info/forum/showthread.php?t=2615

Giotto

El Greco

01-28-08, 07:13

Do you know about the Sky Train and the Subway? Do you know the key stops? Do you know where to exchange your money? Do you know the best way to get from the airport? Do you know about the traffic grid lock that BKK is famous for? Do you know where the best places to eat? etc., etc., etc. It does sound like you have traveled internationally, so it won't be very different if you have.

One last thought. Read the reports of distinction thread. Some fluff, but lot's of good stuff too.

Peace,
AT2

I had the chance to discuss with Jackson, over a couple of dinners, issues like that about the forum.

I do believe that every city should have some kind of "check list" as I call it. Meaning specific info from the time you touch ground to the time you are leaving that city. E.g. how to get to/from the city, where to stay, where to eat and mostly where to party and monger. Places, prices what to avoid etc

In order to get an idea pls read a little "Bubba boy's" guide to Rio de Janeiro.

Mick Licker did an excellent work recently but I am afraid it will be soon lost in between the other reports.

Jackson was thinking of hiring someone to do that but I think he will eventually need the help of the experts of every city.

Meanwhile we can all contribute by answering some questions.

I am planning my next trip to SE Asia visiting new places that I have never been before and I can understand how all newbies are feeling about going to a place for the first time. eg "Dickhead" is a veteran poster in south america having about 2.000 posts but was going to Thailand for his first time and was asking if he can pass his sleeping pills through customs. If you visit Thailand once you know that this is not an issue but if it is your first time you simply don't.

Thanks

El Greco